The Burlington County Fire Marshal's Association Urges Safety Around Fireworks this Holiday

Fireworks are a Summer Tradition for Many Families

Independence Day, unfortunately, is one of the busiest days of the year for firefighters. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year, and two out of five are fireworks-related incidents.

The Burlington County Fire Marshals' Association suggests the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. 

If you insist on setting off your own fireworks, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends taking these precautions:.

• Only buy fireworks from a licensed seller (not from someone on the street or from someone’s house)
• Read and follow the directions on the fireworks before lighting them
• Have water handy in case of an emergency
• Only use fireworks in an open, outdoor area
• Light the fireworks on a hard surface and be cautious of any wind
• Have a designated person to set off the fireworks who avoids alcohol and does not wear loose clothing
• Make sure that the designated person wears safety goggles and close toed shoes
• Do not alter or combine fireworks
• Aim the firework away from houses, dry leaves, flammable materials and people
• Never extend a body part over the devise
• Light one firework at a time
• Never relight a “dud” firework
• Wait 20 minutes after setting off the firework to approach it, and then soak it in water

Fireworks Injuries

Unfortunately, injuries from fireworks are another tradition that often seems to follow when kids are allowed to play with fireworks.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that:

* 5 people died in 2018 associated with using fireworks
* over 9,100 people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks in 2018
* most injuries from fireworks occur in the few weeks around July 4th
* 36% of the injuries were to children under age 15
* firecrackers caused the most injuries, followed by rockets and sparklers
* burns are the most common injuries from fireworks

Are Sparklers Safe?

Parents who understand that firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles, etc. can cause injuries, often let their younger kids play with sparklers because they think they are safe.

Sparklers, which can reach over 1000°F, cause half of the injuries to children under age five though, and 10 percent of fireworks-related injuries overall.

So even sparklers should be avoided.