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Tips for a Fun, Festive & Safe 4th of
July from
The National Council on Fireworks Safety
By Amy Schamburek (www.20ishparents.com)
 People
everywhere are fascinated by fireworks -- by the mystery and splendor
that light the night sky or turn a backyard into a festival of light
and sound. Like nothing else, fireworks can excite, thrill and amaze
us. But as dazzling as fireworks can be, they can also be harmful
if used improperly.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS) urges
you to put safety first when celebrating this Fourth of July. Legal
fireworks are safer than ever, in part because of stringent federal
safety standards enacted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
in 1976. The incidence of fireworks-related injuries has dropped
dramatically during the past 10 years, according to Ann Crampton,
executive director of the NCFS. But she says it can be cut further
by following a few simple guidelines.
"Only use legal fireworks," she says. "The key, of
course, is being able to recognize what's legal and what's not.
Legal fireworks conform to the standards. Illegal ones often don't."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that
legal fireworks show the name of the item, the name of the manufacturer
or distributor and easy-to-read cautionary labeling and instructions
for proper use. Currently, 32 states, plus the District of Columbia,
allow the use of some or all types of consumer fireworks.
"Commonly used fireworks include cones, fountains,
and sparklers," Ms. Crampton says. "Before setting off any fireworks,
contact your local police or fire department to make sure fireworks
are allowed in your area."
Illegal devices include M80s, M100s and silver salutes.
They have been federally banned since 1966 because of the large
amounts of illegal explosives they contain. "Don't confuse these
items with legal, consumer fireworks. Illegal devices will usually
be unlabeled, will not bear a caution statement and will not list
the manufacturer's name," cautioned Ms. Crampton. "Illegal explosive
devices are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injuries.
If you find any illegal items, or know of anyone selling them, contact
the police immediately."
If you choose to use consumer fireworks to celebrate
this year's Fourth of July festivities, remember the following safety
tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
- A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
- Never give fireworks to young children.
- Always purchase fireworks from reliable sources.
- Follow label directions carefully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and
vehicles.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them in metal
or glass containers.
- Light them one at a time then move back quickly.
- Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Observe local laws and use common sense.
- Sparklers, fountains and other items that many states allow
for use by consumers are not appropriate when a large crowd is
present.
- If attending a community display, leave your own fireworks at
home -- there will be plenty of excitement provided by the display.
For more information on Fireworks safety, visit
the National Council on Fireworks Safety web site.
Amy Schamburek is a young mother and the editor of 20ishParents.com,
an invaluable resource for young parents.
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