Fourth of July Fireworks Safety Tips

By Dalia Colón

Monday is July 4. Bring on the hotdogs, Katy Perry music and Old Navy’s $5 flag T-shirts! But before you get the party started, chew on this sobering statistic: During the 2010 calendar year, three people died and 8,600 were injured while using fireworks, according to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

For a safe and happy Fourth, heed these tips from the CPSC, American Pyrotechnics Association and National Council on Fireworks Safety.
 
DO:

• Use fireworks outdoors, in an area clear of dry vegetation and combustibles.
• Follow the directions on the packaging.
• Wear safety goggles and close-toed shoes.
• Keep a hose or bucket of water handy, and soak each device after burning.
• Keep kids and spectators at a distance.

DON’T:

• Don’t freestyle. Avoid altering or combining fireworks, and steer clear of homemade devices made from illegal explosives.
• Don’t try to relight a “dud” firework.
• Don’t hold or light more than one sparkler at a time.
• Don’t let kids under 12 use sparklers.
• Don’t drink alcohol. Have a “designated shooter.”

For more tips, check out this video series from the American Pyrotechnics Association.