Independence Day celebrations are built on traditions involving family, friends, picnics and fireworks.
Although fireworks injury rates have decreased in the past few years, many fireworks-related injuries still occur. The Columbus Division of Fire would like to offer the following safety tips to help make this Fourth of July holiday a safer one.
•Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
•Buy only legal fireworks. In the State of Ohio only snaps, snakes, smoke bombs and sparklers are legal. Always read and follow all warnings and instructions.
•Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
•Have an adult present at all times. Even sparklers can be dangerous if unsupervised. They burn at up to 1800 degrees fahrenheit.
•Only light fireworks one at a time. Only light fireworks outdoors on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials.
•Never ignite fireworks while holding them. Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
•Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
•Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
•Have a garden hose or a bucket of water handy in case of an emergency.
•Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have not fully functioned. Soak them with water and throw them away.
•Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water then disposing them in a trash can.
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