It isn’t hard to see why so many people include fireworks in all of their gatherings and get-togethers. In addition to providing your guests with entertainment, fireworks can make even a small-scale celebration seem considerably more festive. Still, despite being closely associated with fun, fireworks are not toys – and failing to understand this simple fact is liable to pave the way for some truly undesirable consequences. So, if you’ve ever been curious as to why firework-related mishaps are so common, consider the following reasons.
People Purchase Unsafe Fireworks
When seeking out the right fireworks for your next gathering, safety should be foremost on your mind. Like most products, fireworks are far from a “one size fits all” affair, and some are much safer than others. So, the next time you find yourself shopping for fireworks online, look for products from manufacturers that value safety. Furthermore, abstain from purchasing fireworks intended for professional use. These fireworks are much more powerful than standard-grade fireworks and are designed specifically for seasoned pros. In many cases, such fireworks can be identified by their brown paper packaging. Should wind up accidentally purchasing fireworks of this type, it is imperative that you not attempt to set them off.
Fireworks Are Not Properly Extinguished
Whether a firework is fully or partially ignited, it will need to be thoroughly doused with water before anyone approaches it or attempts to dispose of it. Some fireworks are unpredictable and may reignite even after they’ve seemingly been ignited. For this reason, you must avoid attempting to relight fireworks. Even if a firework only partially ignites or appears to be a complete dud, you mustn’t relight it. Additionally, you should avoid even approaching it until it’s been doused with water.
Fire Safety is Not Prioritized
Fire is a common consequence of improper firework use. For example, if fireworks are set off in the immediate vicinity of buildings, vehicles, flammable materials or dry areas, there’s a good chance you’ll have a fire on your hands. Furthermore, even when fireworks are used properly, accidental fires may occur. To nip this problem in the bud, make a point of keeping a garden hose, bucket of sand and fire extinguisher within easy reach whenever you set off fireworks. This way, even if no fires break out, you and your guests will be able to enjoy peace of mind.
Fireworks Are Treated Like Toys
Fireworks may be associated with good times, but they are not playthings. Unsurprisingly, regarding them as such can lead to a host of accidents and injuries. This is why it’s important to avoid aiming fireworks at people and things and setting them off in cans, bottles and other containers. Even if done in jest, such actions can facilitate results that can’t be reversed.
Children Are Allowed to Handle Fireworks
While it’s easy to see why so many children enjoy watching fireworks, they should never be allowed to handle them or set them off. No matter how responsible your little ones may be, children and fireworks do not mix. So, when it comes to fireworks, your kids will have to be content with enjoying them as observers – and from a safe distance.
Additionally, many adults make the mistake of believing that sparklers are safe for small children. These individuals are likely unaware of the fact that sparklers can burn at up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit – a temperature that can easily sear skin and melt some metals.
Fireworks Are Set off in an Impaired State
If you’re under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, you have no business setting off fireworks. These substances impair your judgment, and it should come as no surprise that impaired judgment and fireworks are far from an ideal match. So, at your next big event, either abstain from drinking for the day or task someone who’s willing to forgo alcohol with overseeing the fireworks in your stead.
It can’t be denied that fireworks and fun go hand-in-hand. Given how common a presence they are at a wide assortment of parties and social events, it’s easy to see why many people never associate fireworks with danger. To be clear – fireworks can be a lot of fun when properly handled. It’s when people throw caution to the wind and treat fireworks like toys that things become dicey. Educating yourself on the chief causes of firework-related mishaps and altering your behavior accordingly can go a long way in the fight to uphold proper safety.
