Firework Safety

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

The Fourth of July is America’s favorite summer day with bar-b-ques, family, and fireworks.  It is a great way to celebrate America’s freedom but it’s important to be safe while lighting fireworks.   According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, with more than half of those fires being caused by fireworks. Here are a few tips to keep your home and family safe this Independence Day.

Designated Shooter-Have a responsible adult administer and light all fireworks. It is important to not mix alcohol with shooting fireworks as well. The shooter should use protective eyewear since facial and eye damage is one of the most common injuries caused by fireworks.

Have a water source ready-Hose down any sparks or stray flames from fireworks.  If you have any duds, soak them with water then wait 20 minutes to ensure that they don’t have a delayed start.  Be sure to wet the ground that the fireworks were lit on to prevent grass fires. 

Have a designated area to light the fireworks-It is important to be sure that the area where you choose to light your fireworks is on flat, level ground.  Grass, gravel, and dirt can sometimes be uneven and cause rockets to tip upon ignition and shoot in a dangerous direction.  If grass is the only available option, find a piece of wood to place the fireworks on.  Be aware of your surroundings.  Make sure spectators are within a safe distance of the location that the fireworks will be lit.  Also, be sure there are not any combustible items near the fireworks. 

Have a safe Fourth of July this year.  And as always, SERVPRO of Saline County and SERVPRO of Hot Springs are “here to help.”