Risk Management Tip of the Week
Fireworks Safety Tips
Fourth of July is a celebration of our nation, our freedom and fun with friends and family. Unfortunately, thousands of people get injured using fireworks each year. The mishandling of fireworks accounts for more than 50,000 reported fires and 10,000+ hospital visits annually. Check with your local police department to ensure fireworks are legal in your area. If you plan to light fireworks, please keep these safety tips in mind:
- Only buy consumer fireworks from a licensed store, tent or stand. Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer’s name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled).
- Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
- Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.
- Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.
- Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.
- Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they’ll run loose or get injured.
We hope you and your family have a safe and happy 4th of July!
