LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
As the U.S. prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July, the planning of pool parties, barbeques and firework shows has likely begun. However, as this festive day approaches, it is important to know the dos and don'ts of firework safety.
A 2011 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission study found that fireworks were involved in an estimated 9,600 injuries treated in emergency rooms throughout the U.S.
To ensure the health and safety of both fireworks display spectators and initiators, consider the following tips provided by the CSPC:
· Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
· Keep body parts away from fireworks devices when the fuse is lit.
· Do not attempt to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited.
· Fireworks should never be pointed or thrown at another person.
· Keep a water source nearby in case of fire-related mishaps.
· Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off of a metal or glass container.
· Light fireworks one at a time, then quickly move away from them.
· Make sure fireworks are legal in the area they'll be used before buying or igniting them.
Not following these guidelines has the potential to cause burn and eye injuries therefore, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends individuals attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting of fireworks to professionals.
Individuals should be aware of the different types of fireworks that cause injuries too. In a 2012 study conducted by the CSPC, fire crackers, bottle rockets and sparklers combined were responsible for 47 percent of the injuries.
U.S. Service members are a vital part in ensuring the success of the mission, so paying attention to safety regulations and adhering to federal and state laws is mandatory. Therefore, as the Fourth of July approaches, military personnel are encouraged to review local and state laws on the use and purchase of fireworks, and assess the potential risks involved with such activity.
For more information about fireworks safety, visit www.cpsc.gov or www.usfa.fema.gov.