Fireworks Safety Tips for Families
This weekend marks the first long weekend and first fireworks of the warm weather. While many of us are looking forward to the extra day off work, preparing for a great BBQ or even opening the cottage, the kids can't wait for the fireworks!
The best way to enjoy fireworks is at a professional or public event (see momstown community blogs for your local details), but if you are hosting a display at your home, here are the tips that all families should remembe to ensure a safe and exciting night.
1. KidsHealth.org recommends that kids should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit (982° Celsius) — hot enough to melt gold.
2. Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place.
3. Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
4. Little kids might be nervous about the loud noises. Be prepared for a strong reaction, if this is your child's first experience. Have noise reducing earphones to make it more enjoyable.
5. Long weekends often mean a few alcoholic bevvies, be sure that the person who is lighting the fireworks, has NOT been drinking.
6. Pets have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed during the fireworks. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.
7. Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from bushes, trees, leaves and flammable substances.
8. Fill a plastic bucket with sand and place the fireworks in there to light it. Be sure to keep a hose handy.
9. Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can. Do not let kids touch fireworks. Even AFTER they have been lit.
10. Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud, recommends SheKnows.com.
Don't forget that if a burn does occur, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn (do not use ice).
Have fun this long weekend, staying safe will ensure that its BLAST!
Staying indoors or want some other ideas for long weekend fun? momstown has other fabulous activities, crafts and books for Victoria Day and Canada Day!
