New Year’s Fireworks Safety

For some families, nothing rings in the New Year like a homespun fireworks display. Laws regarding fireworks vary by state but people often obtain, even going out-of-state if necessary. We’ll leave the legalities of such activities to law enforcement however there are some key things you should know before you light the fuse on that rocket.

Did you know that fireworks are a major cause of house fires in the United States? Sparklers, which are legal in most states, can reach temperatures of over 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. That nearly four times the temperature at which you’d cook a roast and yet parents often allow their young children to play with lit sparklers. Once the sparkler stops sparking, the tip remains hot enough to start a fire, particularly if there are dead leaves or very dry mulch in your landscaping. Any type of rocket has the potential to land on a roof and smolder for hours. After the display is over, do not allow children to pick up fireworks as there may still be live powder which could ignite causing serious injury. Mishaps with fireworks also cause a vast number of emergency room visits for both children and adults. And of course, alcohol and explosives are an incredibly dangerous combination.

We highly recommend that you leave fireworks to the professionals and look for a family friendly First Night celebration to enjoy a safe and entertaining fireworks display.