The Statesboro Fire Department, in partnership with the National Fire Protection Association, has issued a Fireworks Safety Warning for the Fourth of July.
As you celebrate Independence Day this weekend, please remember not everyone is a fan of loud noises (especially pets). When using fireworks this 4th of July, please practice the following safety tips:
- Always read the labels and follow the directions for each specific type of firework
- Light fireworks outdoors and maintain a safe distance away from other people and fire hazards
- Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
- Do not give fireworks to small children
- Avoid using illegal or homemade fireworks
- Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby
- Submerge used and unused fireworks in water prior to discarding
- If injuries and damages do occur, call 911
- If you do not feel safe lighting your own fireworks, feel free to attend a public fireworks display
It is important to be mindful of fireworks safety.
Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year.
A few ideas to get into the patriotic spirit, without fireworks:
- Use glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to a sparkler. Fun for
all ages. - Loud and proud. Noise makers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local
party supply stores or make your own. - Outdoor movie night. Set up a screen and projector.
Don’t forget the bug spray! - Red, white and blue silly string…fun for all ages.
- Make a patriotic craft with the family.
- Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don’t forget
the cake.
FACTS About Fireworks Safety
• More than 19,500 reported fires
are started by fireworks annually.
• Burns account for 44% of
the 9,100 injuries treated in
emergency rooms seen in the
month around July 4.
• Half of the fireworks injuries
seen at emergency rooms were
extremities: hand, finger, or leg.
One-third were to the eye or
other parts of the head.
• Children ages 10–14 had the
highest rate of fireworks injury,
with more than one-third (36%)
of the victims of fireworks injuries
under age 15.
• Sparklers account for roughly
one-quarter of emergency room
fireworks injuries.
