Celebrate our nation’s birthday safely and responsibly…

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), each July Fourth, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks - devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death, nor do they adhere to the state laws regarding consumer fireworks. See Fireworks – Illegal in Connecticut for information regarding our state.

The Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks is a group of health and safety organizations, coordinated by the NFPA, that urges the public to avoid the use of consumer fireworks and instead, to enjoy displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals.  Here’s why…

Facts & figures

• In 2008, fireworks caused an estimated 22,500 reported fires, including 1,400 total structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 20,600 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated one civilian death, 40 civilian injuries and $42 million in direct property damage.
• In 2008, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 7,000 people for fireworks related injuries; 53% of 2008 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 37% were to the head.
• The risk of fireworks injury was highest for teens ages 15-19 and children 5-9, both with at least two-and-a-half times the risk for the general population.
• On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.

Backyard picnics on Fourth of July have been a tradition for many years.  However, when the confusion of a crowded backyard is commonly combined with alcoholic beverages and fireworks, the outcome could potentially be dangerous to all who are involved, especially children. 

In fact, even sparklers can cause serious injuries.  The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns. 

The good news is you can enjoy your holiday and the fireworks with out the risk of injury just by following the recommendations made by the NFPA: Leave fireworks to the professionals.  Attend a public display conducted by trained professionals and hold your backyard celebration before, after or on a different day than the public fireworks display. 

In addition, the National Council on Fireworks Safety urges families to read their latest press release about sparkler safety. http://www.fireworksafety.com/news_releases/national_council_on_firewor.pdf.

Enjoy your July 4th celebrations, but be safe and responsible!! 

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