A Safe Independence Day

Happy July! I know we are all looking forward to the 4th, with many of us having plans with our families and friends. Fireworks went on sale last week, and many of us may be planning on celebrating the 4th with them. Fireworks can be dangerous! The National Council on Fireworks Safety provided the following tips:

• USE FIREWORKS OUTDOORS ONLY.

• OBEY LOCAL LAWS.  IF FIREWORKS ARE NOT LEGAL WHERE YOU LIVE, DO NOT USE THEM!
• ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS DO NOT MIX!

• A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.

• Always have water handy (a hose or a bucket of water).
• Have a “Designated Shooter”. The shooter should always wear safety glasses!
• Only persons over 12 should handle and use sparklers. They can burn in excess of 1800 degrees!
• Do no alter or try to combine fireworks.
• NEVER RE-LIGHT A “DUD” FIREWORK (wait 20 minutes, then soak them in a bucket of water.

• Never give fireworks to young children.
• Always purchase fireworks from reliable sources.
• Follow label directions carefully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers.
• Light them one at a time then move back quickly.
• Sparklers, fountains and other items that many states allow for use by consumers are not appropriate when a large crowd is present.
• If attending a community display, leave your own fireworks at home -- there will be plenty of excitement provided by the display.

• DO NOT EVER USE HOMEMADE FIREWORKS OR ILLEGAL EXPLOSIVES; THEY CAN KILL YOU! REPORT ILLEGAL EXPLOSIVES TO THE FIRE OR POLICE DEPARTMENT IN YOUR COMMUNITY.

Have a SAFE and Happy Independence Day!