A Dangerous Way to Celebrate: Fireworks are Fire Hazards

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

For many Americans, July 4^th is synonymous with grilling, apple pie and fireworks of all shapes and sizes. While professional shows can be entertaining and beautiful, fireworks are extremely dangerous and pose many risks to those using them. Despite the dangers, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, severe injuries, fires and even death.

From 2009 to 2013, fire departments in the U.S. responded to an average number of 18,500 fireworks-related fired. These included 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 assorted other fires. More than one-quarter of the fires started during this period were reported on July 4^th; almost half of these fires were started by fireworks. In 2014, emergency rooms across the country treated roughly 10,500 people for firework-related injuries. Most of these injuries were to the extremities or the head.

Ultimately, the best way to enjoy your holiday and fireworks is to leave them to the professionals; consumer fireworks are extremely dangerous explosive devices. Attend the public display conducted by trained professionals! If you still feel inclined to use fireworks on your own, please follow these safety tips:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities.  Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.  Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

And let’s not forget the safety of our pets!

• Don’t bring your pets to a fireworks display, even a small one.
• If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound.
• Make sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during a fireworks display.
• Never shoot fireworks of any kind (consumer fireworks, sparklers, fountains, etc.) near pets.

Should you suffer fire damage this Summer, contact SERVPRO of Bangor/Ellsworth at (207)947-0400!  Let us help you make it "Like it never even happened."