What sparks, fizzles, pops, and can set your house on flames? Fireworks! Yes, even though they’re flashy and liven any celebration, they pose a huge risk to bystanders and homes. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association strongly recommends not using consumer fireworks and attending professional events instead. According to the NFPA, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, which results in an average of $43 million in direct property damage.
If you feel that your holiday is incomplete without lighting some fireworks yourself, however, the Consumer Product Safety Commission offers some tips:
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays.
- Keep in mind that sparklers are actually not child friendly. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
- To which the NFPA adds, sparklers can be hotter than the temperature it takes to boil water, burn wood, or melt glass. Sparklers alone account for ¼ of emergency room fireworks injuries!
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- USA.gov recommends the following method of disposing unused, misfired, or “dud” fireworks safely:
- Once they have completely burned, fully submerge fireworks in a large bucket of water and soak until thoroughly saturated. This may take 15 minutes for small fireworks or several hours for larger ones.
- Double wrap the completely soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or two plastic bags so they do not dry out.
- Place the double-bagged fireworks in the household trash or bring them to your local solid waste facility.
- USA.gov recommends the following method of disposing unused, misfired, or “dud” fireworks safely:
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
When it comes to safeguarding your home, utilize best fire prevention practices. Just as importantly, consider what home protection your insurance offers. Have an entertaining, safe holiday and Happy Fourth!
