Independence Day celebrations would seem incomplete without a traditional fireworks display.
However, fireworks are true to their name, as they emit a flame or spark to produce the beautiful colors that we all like to watch.
As fire chief, Bob Lynn from the Blazing Arrow Hook and Ladder Company, advises, “Using general common sense will protect people and property.”
The National Council on Fireworks Safety agrees, and recommends these safety tips to help everyone have a fun and safe Fourth of July holiday:
Purchase fireworks from a known retail outlet
Never buy from unlicensed dealers, and select only legal devices. Stay away from illegal explosives with names such as Roman candles, Cherry bombs, M-100s, M-80s, Helicopters, Blockbusters, and Bottle Rockets. These have been banned in every state since 1966, and it is a felony to purchase or use such explosives.
Read and follow directions carefully before use
Know how to use the firework before attempting to ignite it. Avoid “unlabeled” products that do not have the item’s name, manufacturer, or instructions for correct use. Don’t alter products, and definitely do not make your own. Mixing chemicals is very dangerous, and could cause injury or death.
Store and carry fireworks carefully
Keep unused fireworks in their original packaging in a cool, dry place.
Never carry them in your pockets or on your body. Inspect each firework to make sure it is defect-free and well constructed.
Adult supervision is mandatory
Even sparklers can cause serious damage, especially to children who do not fully understand the potential for harm. Constant supervision by a responsible adult is a MUST.
One at a time and outdoors only
Only light one firework at a time, and never re-light a “dud”. Chances are it could combust in your hands. Select a flat area outdoors that is away from buildings and homes, flammable materials, and dry vegetation. This will prevent a fire from having fuel to burn.
Protect yourself and others.
Always wear eye protection, and keep all spectators and bystanders at least 25 feet away from the area where the fireworks will be ignited. Also, do not put any part of your body over the firework as it is being lit.
Act like an adult
Do not engage in horseplay around fireworks by pointing or throwing them at other people or pets. Accidents do happen!
Water, water everywhere.
In case of malfunctioning fireworks, be prepared for an emergency by having a water source or fire extinguisher readily available.
Dispose properly.
Soak used fireworks in a bucket of water before placing them in a garbage receptacle.
In addition to using consumer fireworks, many people will watch large pyrotechnic displays locally. Shows like the one exhibited annually at Delgrosso’s Amusement Park in Tipton are under strict regulations from federal, state, and local authorities to ensure public safety.
“Safety has always been number one with us, even back when my Dad started having our show back in 1946,” explains Joe Delgrosso. “The September 11th terrorist attacks caused us to implement even more controls.”
The park only allows licensed pyrotechnicians of Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks to handle the equipment. Getting the fireworks from Rozzi’s in Loveland, OH to Tipton, PA isn’t easy either. The trucks in which the fireworks are shipped must be labeled with placards, designating the type of explosive cargo on board.
Once here, the team setting up the display must secure the mortars into the ground with sand, mark off the “drop area” in which used fireworks can fall safely back to ground without injuring guests, and strategically locate security personnel so that curious spectators don’t enter unauthorized areas.
Lighting the fireworks has also become easier for the experts from Rozzi’s in recent years.
“The shells are ignited electrically, so there’s no more hand-lighting of the fuses,” adds Delgrosso. “This wiring allows us to stand back from the mortars which is much safer.”
Whether in your backyard or at a local display, treating fireworks with caution will make this 4th of July a pleasant memory.
Did you know?… That Pennsylvania is one of the strictest states regarding
fireworks control laws? That most states allow some or all types of consumer fireworks to be used. That Pennsylvania is one of only 7 states that permit just sparklers and other novelty items to be purchased.
