At-Home Fireworks Displays Safety

17 Jun At-Home Fireworks Displays Safety

Fourth of July celebrations aren’t expected to be what they typically are. Many large fireworks displays are canceled or are expected to be, and many of us will choose to stay close to home for safety anyways. With that in mind, many families are expected to have their own fireworks displays at home to celebrate our nation’s birthday. While we love that people are choosing to stay home to protect their health, there are a few risks we want to make you aware of ahead of time so you can protect you and your loved ones while still having a great time!

One of the biggest concerns you may have if you’re having an at-home 4th of July celebration would be how to use fireworks safely.

Purchasing Safe & Legal Fireworks:

First-things-first, make sure that the fireworks you have were purchased legally, in-state, from a reputable distributor. In some areas, all consumer fireworks may be prohibited, and in others, the type of firework that’s legal will vary. Be sure to check your state and local laws before you purchase any fireworks. To help prevent accidentally purchasing illegal fireworks, avoid purchasing at someone’s home or vehicle, and don’t purchase fireworks that are misshapen, in a cardboard tube, or not in commercial packaging.

When you’re ready to start your display, follow these guidelines for proper usage:

• Read the instructions and warnings on all fireworks before you begin, and always follow the manufacturer’s warnings.
• Only light fireworks outside and away from dry grass, plants, houses, and other flammable objects.
• Supervise children and pets. Young children should never be allowed to handle fireworks, including sparklers. Supervise children at all times, keep fireworks out of reach, and keep kids a safe distance away from fireworks. Pets are often scared of fireworks, and unfortunately, many pets will escape. Keep pets indoors, and if you can, have someone else watch your pets if you know they will be frightened. Also, your neighbors will probably appreciate it if you give them a heads up that you’re going to be using fireworks.
• Dress appropriately when using fireworks. It may be tempting to throw a coverup over your bathing suit, but loose clothing is a big fire hazard with fireworks.
• Take precautions ahead of time. Fill a bucket with water or keep a hose at the ready, and have an extinguisher on hand to put out the firework or anything they may ignite.
• Light your fireworks with caution by making sure that no part of your body is directly above the device.
• Douse your fireworks when they’re done burning by soaking them with water from a bucket or hose before you throw it away. If a firework isn’t working, douse it with fire and throw it away.

Safety may be the most important thing, but don’t forget to have fun, too! Make sure everyone has their cameras ready to get pictures and videos of the display. Your at-home 4th of July celebration will be one to remember, so be sure to enjoy every second of it!

Be safe, be well, and Happy 4th of July!

Looking for more tips for the perfect At-Home 4th of July celebration? Check out this blog!