Don't let ooohhh... become owwww!

  • Published
  • By Kevin Greene
  • 436th Airlift Wing Safety Office
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Independence Day usually brings thoughts of parades, backyard barbecues and, of course, fireworks. Wing Safety also wants you to put some thought into safety as you prepare to celebrate the upcoming long weekend we know as the Fourth of July.

In the U.S. in 2010 fireworks-related injuries were associated with approximately 1,900 people ending up in emergency rooms. Did you know... the Consumer Product Safety Commission annual death and injury report on fireworks incidents indicates nearly half of these injuries occurred to children younger than 15 years of age. The culprits? Firecrackers, bottle rockets and sparklers. Yes, that's right, sparklers.

Sparklers, which are the only legal firework in Delaware, are considered by many people to be the "safe" firework. But, did you know that some innocent looking sparkler can get as hot as the flame on a blow torch and can easily ignite items around them to include your clothing?

As you celebrate the Fourth of July, please remember and remind your friends and neighbors, before they light any type of fireworks, they need to make sure it's legal to do so where they live. We ask everyone follow the following tips when dealing with fireworks:

· Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
· Adults should always supervise fireworks activities.
· Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that fizzle or don't go off.
· Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
· Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
· After fireworks fully complete their function, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding to prevent a fire.

Remember, all fireworks are dangerous and precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and happy holiday celebration.