All Hands Fire Equipment Announces Firework Safety Tips for the 4th Of July Holidays

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Neptune, NJ (PRWEB) June 29, 2012

Professional Fireworks Displays are a great summertime event in many communities. In most instances, vendors are professionals and provide the display only after receiving a permit. They must operate under strict safety regulations and under the watchful eye of the fire marshal.

Recreational fireworks, on the other hand, are extremely dangerous and pose a significant hazard. Consumer fireworks are legal under federal law for consumer use in some states, however in many states and communities they are illegal.    

According to the NFPA, fire departments in the United States respond to more than 50,000 fires that are caused by fireworks. Additionally, hospitals in the U.S. treat nearly 9,000 people who are injured as a result of fireworks. Most injuries are reported between June 15 and July 15. Children under the age of 15 account for approximately 40% of these injuries.

Here are some tips that may increase awareness and safety around fireworks:

•     Knowing and obeying local laws regulating fireworks is important. If they are not legal, they should not be used.
•     Storing fireworks in an appropriate container is a must.
•     Fireworks should never be ignited inside, they are for outdoors only.
•     Water or a fire extinguisher such as those displayed at http://www.allhandsfire.com/fire-extinguishers should always be nearby.
•     Using fireworks while under the influence or alcohol or drugs is inviting disaster.
•     Allowing children to light fireworks should not be a consideration under any circumstances.
•     If a firework is ignited and it does not go off, the user should wait 15-20 minutes and then douse it with water.
•     Altering or modifying fireworks is a significant hazard. They should only be used as intended.
•     Keeping spectators back a safe distance from fireworks is very important.
•     Using common sense and always thinking SAFETY first may help avoid injuries.

The key to enjoying the summer holidays is to maintain awareness and the safety of those around that are in the area. Fireworks are inherently dangerous, but with care, respect and being aware of danger, they can also be enjoyable and fun.

Donald Colarusso, a firefighter for over 24 years and President of All Hands Fire Equipment said “While fireworks are an important part of July 4th fun and celebration, it’s important to remember to handle them safely to reduce the risk of injury to your loved ones.”

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