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Call the National Council on Fireworks Safety at 202 349-7127 for more information.
Fireworks Safety Tips Issued for the Fourth of July Group warns against using illegal fireworks
Bethesda, Maryland (June 11, 2003) — The tradition of celebrating with fireworks on the Fourth of July has never been more popular, according to the National Council on Fireworks Safety (www.fireworksafety.com). But it urges Americans to pay special attention to safety guidelines and avoid illegal devices to help ensure a safe Independence Day holiday.
Forty-three states and the District of Columbia allow the use of some or all types of consumer fireworks and the safety education group said it expects more Americans than ever to show their pride in the U.S. by celebrating with traditional backyard fireworks displays this summer.
"We experienced a surge in patriotism in the U.S. last year as we celebrated the first July Fourth holiday since 9-11," said a spokesperson for the National Council on Fireworks Safety. "This year, following the war in Iraq, we're expecting Americans to take that patriotism to a new high."
Today's legal fireworks are safer than ever, in part because of stringent federal safety guidelines enacted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, said the spokesperson. But she said injuries could be avoided by following a few simple guidelines and one in particular.
"Stay clear of illegal fireworks," she said. "Illegal devices include cherry bombs, silver salutes and M80s, all of which have been federally banned since 1966 because of the large amounts of explosive material they contain. Legal fireworks conform to federal standards. Illegal ones do not."
"Illegal devices will usually be unlabeled, will not bear a caution statement and will not list the manufacturer's name," the spokesperson said. "Illegal explosive devices are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injuries. If you find any illegal items, or know of anyone selling them, contact your local police immediately."
Commonly used legal fireworks include cones, fountains, aerial items and sparklers. But the spokesperson cautioned, "before setting off any fireworks, contact your local police or fire department to make sure fireworks are allowed in your area."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that legal fireworks show the name of the item, the name of the manufacturer or distributor and easy-to-read cautionary labeling and instructions for proper use.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety issued the following safety tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday:
* Always read and follow label directions
* Have an adult supervise all fireworks activities
* Buy from reliable sources
* Ignite outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles
* Keep a bucket of water handy
* Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks
* Light fireworks one at a time
* Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
* Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
* Never throw fireworks at another person
* Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
* Eye protection should always be worn by the fireworks shooter
* No part of the shooter's body should be over the firework
For interviews, call the National Council on Fireworks Safety at 202 349-7127.
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