Most children and teens are injured each year  while using consumer fireworks. It is therefore recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics that families do not buy  fireworks for their own or children’s use.

Few people understand the dangers of fireworks. Fireworks can result in burns, blindness , fires or even death. Fireworks such as such as sparklers are often thought to be safe . However they can reach temperatures above 1000°Fahrenheit and  burn users and bystanders.

Fireworks Safety Tips for Families

If fireworks are legal where you live, keep these safety tips in mind.

• Kids should never be allowed to play with fireworks.  Things like firecrackers, sparklers and rockets are just too dangerous.
• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• By only legal fireworks.Legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer’s name and directions, illegal ones are unlabeled. Store fireworks  in a cool, dry place.
• Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of an accident.
• Never throw or point fireworks to someone as a joke.
• Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. You should also wear eye protection and not put fireworks in your pocket. The friction can set them off.
• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in a trash can.
• Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk of them  running  loose or getting  injured during fireworks.
• Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

What to do when injury happens

Go to the hospital immediately if a child is injured by fireworks. If an eye injury happens :

• Don’t  let the child rub or touch it as it can cause more damage.
• Dont flush the eye out with water or try to put any ointment on it.
• Cut out the bottom of a paper cup, place it around the eye  and get medical care right away.

If your child is burned :

• Remove clothing from the burned area.
• Call your doctor right away.