In keeping with the trend of spreading summer safety tips, the Office of the State Fire Commissioner highlighted firework safety as we head into times where summer celebrations will make their appearances.
Along with the Burn Prevention Unit and American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation, state fire commissioner Bruce Trego announced yesterday that a campaign called “Celebrate Safety PA” has launched across the state with the main emphasis being that fireworks are not toys, and that PA residents should take precautions when setting off fireworks.
In 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported approximately 9,100 residents were treated for fireworks-related injuries. Half of those injuries were burns.
CEO of the Burn Prevention Network Dan Dillard said in a news conference that children under the age of 16 are common victims of burn-related injuries, especially when using sparklers.
A full list of safety tips for handling fireworks and other pyrotechnics is available below.
Never allow children to play with fireworks, even sparklers, which can burn at
temperatures of at least 1200 degrees.
• Only allow adults to light fireworks one at a time, then quickly back away.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of a fire.
• Never pick up or try to relight fireworks that have not fully ignited.
• After the fireworks have burned, fully douse them with water before picking them up or
disposing to prevent trash fires.
• Never use fireworks after consuming alcohol, or other medications or substances that
can impair judgment or the ability to react quickly to an emergency.
• Whether attending a professional display, or using consumer fireworks, always remain
at a safe distance from the ignition location.
• Be sensitive of neighbors and their pets, particularly if military veterans live nearby.
