ARCHIVE: June 2007
Firework Safety Month

Every year over 11,000 people go to the emergency room as a result of fireworks mishaps.

Recognizing that people will continue to set off fireworks in their backyards, in a field or on the street, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has some recommendations that may help cut down on accidents and injuries:

• Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances. Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing. Children cannot understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.
• Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.
• Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass and flammable materials.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that don't go off.
• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
• Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Observe local laws.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
• Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.

Parents should supervise the ordering and use of mail-order "make-your-own" firework kits. The following is a summary of state regulations as of June 1, 2005.