Fireworks can be entertaining, but they can also be dangerous.
The most recent data reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reveals in 2008 there were 22,500 incidents where fireworks caused fires in the U.S. These included 1,400 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 20,600 outside fires. These fires resulted in $42 million in direct property damage.
In 2008 there were 7,000 injuries and one civilian fatality in the United States related to firework incidents.
The characteristics of the fireworks related injuries included the following:
• 53 percent of 2008 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 37 percent were to the head.
• 57 percent of the 2008 fireworks injuries were burns, while 20 percent were contusions and lacerations.
• Two of five (40 percent) people injured by fireworks were under the age of 15.
• The risk of fireworks injury was highest for teens ages 15-19 and children 5-9, both with at least 2-1/2 times the risk for the general population.
• Sparklers, fountains, and novelties alone accounted for 32 percent of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2007.
The following are safety tips provided by the North Spartanburg Fire District to consider when using fireworks:
• Never allow young children to play with fireworks
• Sparklers account for 1/3 of injuries to children less than 5 years of age
• Always provide close adult supervision to older children
• One out of every three people injured are children under the age of 15
• Only ignite fireworks in clear areas away from combustible vegetation and structures
• Fire can quickly spread through flammable or combustible materials
• Never have any portion of your body over a firework when lighting
• Wear protective eyewear and avoid wearing loose clothing
• Never attempt to reignite a malfunctioning firework. Soak the firework and dispose of it properly.
• Never point fireworks toward people, pets, cars, or buildings and never throw fireworks. This can easily lead to injury and cause fires.
• Never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container. This could explode and spread shrapnel
• Never experiment with homemade fireworks or attempt to alter fireworks. These could be unpredictable.
• Always observe local and state laws
• Always keep a bucket of water or hose nearby that can be used to quickly extinguish a fire before it spreads
• Spent fireworks should be soaked in a bucket of water before disposing
• Consider attending a professional public display event instead.
Another note that many people do not know: some home owner insurance may not cover damage to your property if caused by the owner shooting fireworks.
Also remember your pets during the 4th of July events
•Never take your pet to a firework display
• Never leave your pet in the car
• Move your pets indoors to a sheltered area. Turn on a radio to a normal volume
•Make sure your pet is wearing an identification tag
•If you know your pet is distressed by loud noises, consult your veterinarian
It is the desire of the North Spartanburg Fire District to educate the public about fireworks safety and fireworks laws, with the goal of preventing firework related injuries and destructive fires.