Fourth of July Fireworks Safety Tips from TNT Expert James Fuller

Rising Fireworks Injuries and Statistics

• ⚠️ Nearly 15,000 people were treated in emergency rooms last year for fireworks-related injuries, with 11 fatalities.
• 🩹 Burns accounted for 37% of injuries, while 22% affected the head, face, and ears, and 36% impacted hands and fingers.
• 🏠 Tragic incidents have occurred recently, including a death in California when a fireworks display exploded inside a home's garage.

Key Safety Principles for Fireworks Use

• ⚖️ Stay legal by checking local laws for both purchasing and using fireworks, as regulations can vary by location.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Be safe by following simple steps to protect yourself, spectators, and property.
• 👍 Act with responsibility by considering neighbors, the environment, and ensuring proper disposal of used fireworks.

Proper Ignition and Device Stability

• 💡 Use a "punk" (a slow-burning ember stick) for lighting fireworks to maintain a safe distance from your body and hands.
• 🚀 For devices like rocket launchers, use bricks, sandbags, or rocks to prevent tipping, which can cause them to fire erratically.
• 💧 Ensure a water source is readily available and always use a flat, stable surface for setting up fireworks.

Preventing Accidents and Ensuring Safe Disposal

• ⚠️ Plan for potential mishaps, such as fireworks tipping over, and be prepared to react quickly, as seen in viral incidents.
• 💨 When lighting fuses, ensure you vacate the area immediately after ignition to avoid injury.
• 🗑️ Properly dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water to prevent re-ignition or fires.