People love to light fireworks on the Fourth of July. It’s a fun and exciting way to celebrate, and the colors and sounds delight both young and old. However, lighting fireworks does come with some risks. Fortunately, it only takes a few extra steps to make the experience safer for everyone. Here are 10 ways you can safely light fireworks this Fourth of July.
1. Location Matters
Many places in Florida have dense vegetation. These spots aren’t as safe for fireworks. As a result, you’ll want to choose an open space with no obstruction.
2. Create a Safe Area
You can make setting off fireworks safer for everyone by creating a perimeter and keeping fireworks inside that area. It’s essential to make your safe area away from homes and structures and have people stay outside the area while the fireworks are lit and burning.
3. Can Still Happen
Some fireworks don’t go out properly, while others may spark in a wild direction into debris. Be prepared with a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water. In fact, spent fireworks can go into the bucket to ensure they’re no longer smoldering.
4. Don’t Hold the Big Ones
Some people find it tempting to hold the bigger fireworks or stand close to them, but that is dangerous. Place fireworks that need a stable, flat surface on the ground. After lighting, move away quickly to reduce the risk of injury.
5. Keep an Eye on Kids
Even simple sparklers can be accidentally dangerous. Ensure that adults are monitoring children and that younger children are not handling the larger, more dangerous fireworks.
6. Teach Kids Safety Basics
In addition to watching children with fireworks, talk to them about how to handle them safely. Show them the bucket of water for their spent fireworks, and explain why it’s risky to stand close or try to pick them up.
7. Buy Legal Fireworks
Florida law has recently changed to allow fireworks on certain holidays. However, many people drive to other regions where the laws are different to get their fireworks. Make sure you’re buying fireworks that are legal in your area.
8. Don’t Mess with Duds
Sometimes a firework doesn’t go off. Don’t try to cut it open or examine it. In fact, it’s best to place duds in the bucket of water, just in case.
9. One at a Time
It’s exciting to light fireworks, but if you try to light several at once, you risk not being able to move away quickly enough. Rather than risk losing control of the situation, stick to lighting one at a time. It’ll also have the benefit of making them last longer.
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10. Watch the Weather
Too much wind can create dangerous conditions for fireworks. It only takes one spark to start a fire. Keep an eye on the weather, and forego the big fireworks if the wind is high. Florida experiences terrible fires some years when there hasn’t been enough rain.
A few safety precautions can make setting off fireworks a fun family event. You’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of the bright flashes knowing that you’ve made it as safe as you can. In addition, you can ensure that nothing happens to your property or neighborhood. So have fun and enjoy the evening without worries!