Fire Safety: Fireworks Responsibility!

As we enter into the 4th of July Holiday Weekend it is a given each year that fire works of some kind will be used. It’s an American tradition, just like lighting the BBQ for those hot dogs and hamburgers. Celebrating is a very fun thing when doing it safely. Safety with fire works if your going to use them comes down to two words, that being common sense. Safety in anything we do is a very simple practice. Think of what your doing and don’t endanger others when you do it.

According to the NY State’s Office of Fire Prevention and Control possession of consumer fireworks are dangerous and illegal is the state of New York. A warning about the dangers of fireworks and the injuries they cause each year is, theoretically, unnecessary. However, we all know that many people across New York State that will choose to overlook the law and use them illegally during various private celebrations.

So, if you choose to use fireworks this weekend, lets use the common sense of being safe. Here a YouTube video on Fireworks Safety…



Here are some common sense tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety. Remember that kids really shouldn’t play with or shoot fireworks. If you give a kid a sparkler, know that they burn at 1800 degrees, hot enough to melt gold. Keep sparklers away from the face, clothing, and hair. Some of the best products to let children feel involved are “snappers” which are affordable and save.

* Make sure to buy only legal fireworks - those are the ones with the manufacturers label on them.

* Never try to make your own fireworks. The process is dangerous and may blow up in your face (literally).

* Stay away from others lighting or using fireworks - some types, bottle rockets, chasers, etc., can backfire or go the opposite direction.

* Light one firework at a time. Never try to relight a dud.

* Point fireworks away from homes. If possible set them off in a mown field away from homes, trees, brush, or other flammable substances. It is estimated that some 60,000 responses are made each year to firework related fires. Soak fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them away.

* Never throw or point fireworks at someone.

* Lastly, always pick up the fireworks you shoot. A neighborhood has a tough enough time keeping itself clean without all the mess fireworks make.

If you are going to use consumer fireworks, preparation before hand, just in case, have all items in place if something bad does happen. Here are a few common sense fire safety YouTube videos that explain some basic precautions to do before using fireworks...





Fire Safety is a very simple and important thing to do as well as practice everyday. Lets have the common sense of mind to practice so that you are ensured a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. Happy 4th of July to all and make it Fire Safe.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)