New Years 2012 Fireworks Safety

New Years 2012 is just a few days away.  I already hear the POP POP POP of firecrackers; this means that people are building up to the big event.  Many will bring in the New Year by going downtown to the big fireworks’ display, but, some will opt to create their own show.  

Statistics state that children and men are among the top people injured by fireworks.  Misuse of fireworks could result in extreme bodily injury, including burns to fingers and hands, eyes and legs; in extreme cases, individuals have suffered blindness, 3rd degree burns and permanent scarring.

If you are one of the ones who prefer making your own New Years cheer, with fireworks, apply a few safety precaution to keep yourself, friends and family safe:

• Avoid stiff fines by becoming familiar with your city/state ordinances.  Fines could apply if you are discovered using firing works within some city limits, as well as, using fireworks that have been outlawed.
• Take note of whether or not your area is dry or not.  If you live in an area that hasn’t had much rain lately, shooting off fireworks could lead to multiple fires and damage to homes.
• Never use homemade or modified fireworks; instead find a reputable dealer.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Store your fireworks in a covered container, in a cool dry place.  Avoid home and vehicle damage.
• Never allow small children to handle fireworks.  Keep a close eye on older children, as well.
• Light one item at a time; lighting a bunch together could create an explosion.
• Never try to relight fireworks that malfunctioned; instead douse them with water and continue your fun.
• Set off fireworks away from residential areas; instead select an area like a parking lot or low traffic street.
• If possible, have a water hose ready to extinguish fires, if not, then have a large bucket of water on hand.  
• Use a fireplace lighter to light your fireworks.
• Never light fireworks inside a container, especially, glass or metal; this could result in dangerous projectiles.
• The body parts that are injured the most are hands, legs and eyes.  Protect yourself by wearing gloves, jeans and goggles.  Protect your hair by using a cap.  Avoid wearing loose clothing that might catch fire.
• During firing, keep the unused fireworks in a covered container to keep from accidentally igniting them.
• Always point fireworks away from yourself and others.  Maintain a safe distance as the fireworks are going off; never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• Never use fireworks inside.  More fireworks injury and safety information.

Another practice of New Years’ celebrators is firing off live rounds from guns.  It always amazes me at the number of people in my neighborhood who have guns.  Some of them sound like rapid fire assault rifles, while some sound like cannons.  I never know whether to feel safer or terrified by the fact that I am surrounded by such heavily armed individuals. 

In any case, if you are a gun shooting New Years’ celebrator, remember, what goes up, must come down.  A stray bullet could result in the loss of life and/or damage to neighbors’ homes.  The best precaution I can suggest for this is, DON’T DO IT.  It’s a felony to fire off live rounds within the city limits.  Each year, I personally, find a place away from the windows, waiting for the shooting to stop and it usually lasts way beyond midnight.

Whatever manner you choose to bring in New Years 2012, do so safely.

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