it in a bucket of water before disposing of it.
• It’s best not to store fireworks, but rather purchase
them the day you are going to use them. If you do need
to store them, keep them in a cool, dry place and out of
the reach of children and pets.
• Never hold a lit firework in your hands and do not
lean over a firework when you are lighting it. Also, do
not point or throw a firework at someone.
• Wear eye protection if you are the one lighting the
fireworks.
• Don’t carry fireworks in your pocket, purse, vehicle,
or other places where movement could cause friction or
expose the fireworks to heat.
• Be a considerate neighbor! Even if the law and local
ordinances allow you to set off fireworks within your
neighborhood, be mindful that fireworks are noisy;
produce smoke, fumes, and dust that can cause mild
to severe reactions in people with conditions such as
emphysema, allergies, and chemical sensitivities; can
frighten children and pets (remember animals have very
sensitive ears!); and can be an unwelcomed distraction.
Discuss the use of fireworks in your neighborhood
with the people who live there. At the very least, use
common sense when you choose where, when, and how
many fireworks you discharge.
• If you or someone near you is injured by fireworks,
immediately seek medical attention. If an eye injury
occurs from fireworks, don’t touch, rub, or rinse the
eye as this may cause even more damage. For burns,
remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not
cold, water over the burn (do not use ice).
Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed. If used
appropriately, they can be a source of great amusement and
a memorable feature at your next gather with family and
friends. Just be sure that everyone knows the fireworks
safety rules before you light up the night sky.
Sources:
Kids Health.org
National Fire Protection Association
Fireworkssafety.org
Teens Health.org
Maine.gov
Consumer Product Safety Commission
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