Fireworks are made up of some combination of chemicals. These chemicals burn, creating heat and light. The fireworks may contain gunpowder or other explosives. These chemicals ignite on contact with the air, creating sparks that travel along with the fuse. Sparklers, which are often used for parties, contain cotton wicks soaked in oil that catch fire when the sparkler is lit.
When fireworks are ignited, they will produce a loud crack or bang. When they explode, they will create an intense flash of light accompanied by a loud report. They may also emit smoke and debris, setting off more fireworks nearby. Because of the loud noise and fire hazard, these devices should never be taken to school or anywhere else where there is a risk of igniting another firework or where they could be mistaken for real firecrackers or bombs.
Lighting fireworks is one of the most dangerous aspects of using them. With proper safety precautions in place, your personal fireworks display can be one of your favorite summer activities. Using fireworks at home is illegal in most states, so be sure to follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding fireworks. Don’t use fireworks without adult supervision. Consult with your state’s Department of Consumer Protection regarding the purchase of consumer fireworks, which are legal in some states but not others.
Another important factor to remember is that it is illegal to burn or explode fireworks within 15 miles of a city or within a half-mile of a school or hospital. In addition, you should shoot nothing from any vehicle, including boats and aircraft. The chief thing to remember about using fireworks at home is that there are no standard sizes or ages to use. Always follow the label instructions on the product packaging or purchase information sheet for each brand you purchase.
Never use more explosives than the label suggests, and always read and obey all label instructions. Only use firecrackers according to their size specifications because these types of products have a high potential for injury to flying debris from exploding fireworks. Remember that even sparklers can cause serious injuries if they come into contact with someone’s eyes or face. Always wear protective eye gear when using sparklers because sparks can fly back onto the user’s face and up into the air where they can be inhaled by bystanders.
Always keep a bucket of water handy to extinguish fireworks that have been accidentally lit, and ensure that children do not play with fireworks near water because explosions could occur if they come into contact with water. It may also be a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case a fire develops unexpectedly after lighting fireworks. Keep your hands away from your face when handling fireworks safely and store them out of children’s reach, so they don’t accidentally ignite them while playing with matches or lighters, which also pose dangers for both
Do not leave a child unsupervised with fireworks. Taking a youngster outside for a sparkler is fine, but be sure he is watching where he steps and staying away from flammable items that could catch fire. If you have pets, keep them out of the yard during the entire display. If you have children, keep them away from the firework by keeping them in an open area where they cannot get hurt. Also, don’t recreate your own fireworks at home if you didn’t get the proper permits for it.
Never assemble or use explosives near water, since they can explode with dominant force when mixed with water or other chemicals. Do not put fireworks in easy reach of fireplaces, stoves, televisions, or other items that could catch fire easily. Never store fireworks outdoors close to anything flammable, such as dry leaves or grass around your house, since they can explode when exposed to heat. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on safe assembly and storage of fireworks, so you don’t accidentally cause an explosion when lighting them up this Fourth of July weekend.
Additional Tips when using fireworks
Adult supervision is always necessary.
Fireworks are fun, but if you are going to let children play with them, it is important that you follow proper safety precautions. Always read the label for each product before you buy or use it. If the label says fireworks are not meant for children, do not buy them. Follow all directions on the label.
If your child is playing with fireworks and has a sparkler, make sure the sparkler does not touch any other items, including clothes or hair. If it does, wash the clothing or hair with soap and water immediately. Never give your child a bottle of water to throw at someone else. If you see your child being hit by a sparkler, pick it up immediately and then move away from that person or group of people until the sparkler comes out of your hands.
Use fireworks in an open area
Use fireworks outdoors only. Never use fireworks indoors or inside a vehicle. Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water and dispose of it far from other people. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited. Never point or throw fireworks at another person. Light only one firework at a time. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or another mishap. Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves to prevent hand injury. __
Avoid alcohol while using Fireworks
If you are planning a party, it is important to remember that alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Alcohol can be very dangerous when mixed with firecrackers or other fireworks.
Fireworks have the potential to cause injuries, burns, and even death. Alcohol can be extremely dangerous when mixed with fireworks. Large amounts of alcohol can cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and, in the most extreme cases, hallucinations and unconsciousness. It is also important to note that fireworks are very loud, so if you are at a party, please make sure all guests are aware of what you are up to before lighting your devices
Dispose of all fireworks properly
It’s also important to keep in mind that many fireworks are not designed to be used more than once. This is the case with fountain-type fireworks or rockets that burst into colored stars or comets. Disposal of these fireworks involves soaking them in water for several hours, then placing them in a trash can away from buildings and flammable materials. If you have questions about your specific firework(s), check with the store where it was purchased.
Final Thoughts
Fireworks are not inherently dangerous; they’re just highly visible, with a loud bang and bright light. But their biggest danger is that they draw attention to you. If you want to make fireworks safe, your first step must be to prevent them from drawing attention to themselves. So: no firecrackers in the middle of a crowd; no shooting off the cannons at midnight; no lighting any fireworks inside buildings or crowded areas.