Fireworks Safety Tips

According to U.S. government statistics, approximately 6,000 people visit the emergency room with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4^th holiday.

In Illinois, sparklers and most fireworks are illegal. However, if you are traveling for the holiday, be sure to review these fireworks safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS):

• Only buy consumer fireworks from a licensed store, tent or stand. Never buy fireworks from an individual's house or from someone on the street. Such devices are likely illegal explosives or professional fireworks that can seriously injure you.
• Read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities. Never give fireworks to children.
• Do not drink alcohol while shooting fireworks.
• Always wear safety glasses.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks outdoors in an area away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.
• Always have a bucket of water and a charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can away from buildings or combustible materials until the next day.
• Report illegal use of fireworks to the police or fire department right away.

ACCESS wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Independence Day weekend! If you would like to learn more about fireworks safety, visit the NCFS'swebsite.