Isn't the Fourth of July great? In addition to being a celebration of America's independence as a nation, there's no school, lots of families have barbecues or cookouts, and you can go see a fireworks display at night.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is at a professional display. Some people light sparklers at home or even set off their own fireworks, but this is dangerous. Some of the people hurt each year aren't the ones setting off the fireworks, but people who are nearby
It's best to stay away from areas where nonprofessionals are setting off fireworks. Fireworks can cause serious eye injuries, including blindness, if the eye tissue gets damaged or torn. Other common injuries from fireworks include burns to the hands and face, which can leave scars. Someone could even lose one or more fingers if fireworks go off the wrong way. Fireworks can also start fires, which can hurt even more people.
If you know someone who plans to set off fireworks at home, here are some safety tips to share:
Sparklers may seem less dangerous than fireworks, but they get extremely hot — as hot as 1,800ºF (982ºC). Sparklers can light clothes on fire and can cause kids to get badly burned. That would take the fun out of a great holiday!
Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: July 2013
|Prevent Blindness America This website offers information, resources, vision tests, volunteer opportunities, and more.|
|United States Fire Administration for Kids This U.S. government site offers fire safety information, games, and the opportunity for kids to become junior fire marshals.|
|National Fire Prevention Association This nonprofit organization provides fire safety information and education.|
|What to Do in a Fire It's scary to think about a fire happening at your house. But you can fight the fear - and prepare yourself - by learning the right way to handle a fire emergency. Find out more.|
|Stay Safe Center Go outside! Just be safe out there. Find out how to handle stinging bugs, thunderstorms, sunny days, and icy cold days, too.|
|Blindness Kids who can't see, or can't see well, learn to live without using their eyes. To learn more about visual impairment and what causes it, read our article for kids.|
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