Practice fireworks safety this Independence Day

  • Published
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing ground and weapons safety offices
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  The American traditions of parades, cookouts, and fireworks help us celebrate the summer season, especially our nation's birthday July 4. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured while using fireworks.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission monitors a sample of hospital rooms and produces annual injury estimates associated with a number of consumer products based upon the injuries that are recorded on these selected hospitals. Using this data, CPSC estimates that 10,200 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in 2005. This is up from the 8,800 people injured in 2002.

Use of fireworks is not authorized within the confines of Fairchild Air Force Base. Check with local law enforcement agencies for areas in Spokane County where fireworks are legal.

It is extremely important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Items such as M-80s, M-100s, blockbusters and quarter-pounders are not fireworks; they are explosives that have been federally banned since 1966. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name and instructions for proper use.

The following are some tips to help ensure a safe Fourth of July.
- Fireworks are not toys. Fireworks complying with strict regulations enacted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1976 function primarily by burning to produce motion and visible or audible effects. They are burning at approximately the same temperature as a household match and can cause burn injuries and ignite clothing if used improperly.
- Never give fireworks to young children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory. Even sparklers can be unsafe if used improperly.
- Stay away from illegal explosives. Illegal explosive devices continue to cause serious injuries around the July 4 holiday.
- If you are aware of anyone selling unlabeled fireworks, contact your local police department.
- Homemade fireworks are deadly. Never attempt to make your own devices and do not purchase or use any kits that are advertised for making fireworks. Mixing and loading chemical powders is very dangerous and can kill or seriously injure you. Leave the making of fireworks to the experts.

To help you celebrate safely this Independence Day, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety offer more safety tips.
- Always read and follow label directions.
- Have an adult present.
- Buy from reliable sellers.
- Only use fireworks outdoors.
- Always keep a source of water handy (i.e., a garden hose and a bucket).
- Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
- Light only one firework at a time.
- Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water to dispose.
- Never give fireworks to small children.
- If you need to store fireworks, store them in a cool, dry place.
- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
- The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
- Stay away from illegal explosives.

For more information, call the 92nd ground safety office at 247-2141, or the weapons safety office at 247-4738.

Information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, www.cpsc.gov, and the
National Council on Fireworks Safety, www.fireworksafety.com, was used in the story.