Fireworks Safety Tips

Avoid a potentially blinding fireworks injury is by attending a professional, public fireworks show rather than purchasing fireworks for home use.

For those who decide to purchase and use consumer fireworks in states where they are legal (PDF), follow these safety tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Do not allow young children to play with fireworks. Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and should be not be handled by young children. Children may not understand the danger involved with fireworks and may not act appropriately while using the devices or in case of emergency.
• Older children should be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision & do not allow any running or horseplay. Pay attention to others playing with fireworks and always wear proper eye protection safety glasses.
• Set off fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from houses, dry leaves, or grass and other flammable materials & do not dispose of unburned fireworks in trash receptacle.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that fail to ignite or explode.
• Do not try to relight or handle "dud" fireworks. Soak them with water before disposing them properly.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never light fireworks in a any container,  glass, plastic  or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas & store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Check instructions for special storage directions & observe local laws.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over or close proximity to any firework while lighting.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.