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The 4th of July holiday is a
great summer holiday to spend time with friends and family, shoot off
fireworks and celebrate America. While you are out enjoying the weather, I
want to offer some pointers to ensure the safety of your families this
holiday weekend. It is important to understand that while fireworks are fun,
they can also be dangerous. People have been known to suffer preventable
burns, vision loss, and hearing loss due to improper use of fireworks.
State health and safety officials say children should never be allowed to
play with or ignite fireworks and all warnings and instructions should be
read and followed. They also warn that fireworks should never be pointed at
another person. Below I am going to include some tips from the Wisconsin
Department of Heath & Human services regarding the use of fireworks:
· Always have an adult present, and never allow children to play with or
ignite fireworks.
· The adult igniting the fireworks should always wear eye protection and
never have any part of the body over the firework.
· Fireworks should be used only outdoors
· Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
· Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
· Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry
leaves, and flammable materials.
· Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals. Keep your pets
indoors to reduce the risk that they will run loose and get injured. Animals
have very sensitive ears and can be stressed or frightened due to the
igniting of fireworks.
· Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
· Never re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in
a bucket of water).
· Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
· Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing
of them in your trashcan.
· Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July
festivities. Fireworks, while fun to watch, can be very dangerous if used
incorrectly. The safest way to prevent fireworks related injuries and deaths
is to leave the fireworks displays to trained professionals. However, should
you choose to shoot off fireworks this weekend, please keep these important
tips in mind. As always have a happy and safe July 4th holiday.
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