Fireworks Fun

June 1st – July 4th is firework safety month, and for good reason.
Warm summer weather, family gatherings, and the impending Fourth of July holiday calls for much celebration!

According to the National Council of Fireworks Safety, the consumption of fireworks has increased by 92% in the last 25 years, and has seen over a 90% decrease in fireworks-related injuries. This is due in large part to the promotion of safety measures ensuring people don’t get hurt. While the occurrence of injuries due to fireworks has decreased over time, every year there are too many new injuries. In 2007, an estimated 9,800 injuries directly caused by fireworks were reported (NCFS, 2008).
Here are a few simple precautions you can do to make sure yourself, your family, and your friends have injury-free fireworks fun:

•Obey your state laws
•Always use fireworks outdoors
•Always have a bucket of water handy, and never relight a ‘dud’ firework. Soak it in the water after 20 minutes.
•Use fireworks as intended. Do NOT combine, or alter them in any way.
•Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Always have a ‘designated shooter’.
•Make sure spectators keep a safe distance.
•Children under the age of 12 should NEVER use fireworks.

While this list may seem like common sense, it is important keep them in mind. All it takes is one mishap to ruin a perfectly great day!

Info from: Olmsted County Public Health Services 2100 Campus Dr. SE Rochester, MN 55904 PHONE: (507) 328-7500 FAX: (507) 328-7501

Source: National Council of Fireworks Safety

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