Fireworks safety: More than just a "big bang"

Mobility Forum, Jul/Aug 2001 by Schatz, John

Every July 4th we celebrate Independence Day, that day in 1776 when the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence. Our forefathers would celebrate by having great banquets and parades. The celebration would be accented with the firing of guns, ringing of bells and watching of grand fireworks displays. Today the celebration of our independence continues with some of the same traditions, with families and friends joining together to watch parades, have picnics and observe grand fireworks displays.

Watching trained professionals conduct a fireworks show is fun and even conducting your own "backyard display" can be a blast (excuse the pun) but the latter does give rise to accidents with injury. Statistics reveal that in 1998 (most recent available figures), 13 people were killed and 10,500 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries. More than 40 percent of these injuries happened to children 15 and younger.

Most injuries are the result of misuse when handling fireworks. Many eye injuries have occurred from incorrectly launched bottle rockets. Many burns, fractures and lacerations have occurred from holding a lit firecracker too long. Even sparklers, which seem harmless enough, create a temperature of 1800 degrees Fahrenheit and have left some with disfiguring scares from burns.

So what can you do to lessen your chance of becoming injured?

Probably first and foremost is to not purchase fireworks in the first place: go to your community's fireworks display and watch trained professionals provide an entertaining show. If you feel you must have your own home display, then make sure the fireworks you buy are legal in your state or community. After purchasing the fireworks, take them home and familiarize yourself with any written instructions or warnings on the labels, check out where the primary fuse is located and follow the safety guidelines below.

Remember it is far safer to be a passive participant in a community fireworks display than an active member in your own. If you must provide your own display, then make sure you take the fireworks you have seriously by taking all appropriate precautions. Following these few guidelines can light the way to a fun celebration and keep it from turning into a burning crisis.

By John Schatz

Safety Management Consultant