Fireworks Safety 101

July 4, 10:34 AMBaltimore Children's Activities ExaminerCaren Watson

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Fireworks.  C. Watson

Children love fireworks.  Maryland law requires a permit for any display fireworks.  But in neighborhoods all throughout our area, people will be setting off fireworks of all kinds.

So whether you have purchased the kits at the grocery store, local Walmart, or local Fireworks tent, or you are going to a party where amateurs will be setting off display fireworks,  take a moment to read basic firework safety tips.

These tips are mainly geared toward the fireworks sold at local stores since the display fireworks should only be used by professionals who are fully trained to be safe.

1. Always keep a large bucket of water nearby.
2. Never allow children to ignite the fireworks.
3. Do not attempt to reignite a firework that did not work.  Wait a few minutes and douse it with water to the point of soaking.
4. Be aware of what you are working with.  The fuse itself even contains powder so it will burn slower, unlike a simple wick.
5. Stand back as far as you can when igniting the firework.  Don't stand or lean over it.
6. Keep all unused fireworks far away from the firing area.
7. Be sure everyone is out of the range of fireworks.  Often the view is better from a nice distance.  Many of the grocery store fireworks in a box need on-lookers to be approximately 15-20 feet away.
8. Fireworks from local stores are often extremely bright and have loud piercing noises.  Ear and eye protection especially for the ignitor is necessary.
9. Set off fireworks in well ventilated area.  Large amounts of smoke will also come out when ignited. 
10. Always aim the firework away from homes, cars, trees, and audiences.
11. If you do get an eye injury, do not rub it or put compression on it.  Call 911 immediately for specific instructions and assistance.
12. Keep pets indoors.  The loud noise, bright lights, and excitement from the audience is often hard for pets to handle or understand. 
13. Be careful with all fireworks, even sparklers.  Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and can set clothes on fire.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission, CPSC, reports on their website that approximately 7,000 people nationwide were treated for firework related injuries in 2008.    Let that not be you or anyone celebrating with you this year.

To get the full list of where the Maryland Fire Marshall has permitted fireworks to be displayed, check this out.

Have a blast this 4th of July but be safe.