Q. Each year, children are injured playing with fireworks. What safety advice may BBB have for a safe July 4th holiday?
A. For many Americans, the July 4th holiday consists of picnics and get-togethers with family and friends, baseball games, pool parties and, almost always, some type of fireworks display. Whether you plan to attend a local fireworks show or light up a few sparklers of your own, safety should always be top consideration.
Better Business Bureau suggests that you keep in mind from whom and what you are buying. Not all fireworks retail stores and stands are equal. There are permanent retail fireworks store locations, and there are clubs, civic groups or youth organizations that sponsor temporary retail stands as fundraisers.
BBB suggests you follow these tips when buying fireworks:
Know what you are buying. Make sure you understand what the fireworks do; some fireworks that shoot into the air are illegal in some areas. Also try to confirm how old the fireworks are; fireworks may deteriorate over time - that could affect their performance.
Know from whom you are buying. Fireworks are often sold from temporary locations or roadside stands. Make sure to keep the proof of purchase and try to get manufacturer information. Keep the packaging, as the firework itself explodes leaving no proof of purchase or product label. If something were to malfunction and cause damage or injury you may need to prove who is liable.
Know how to use them. Be sure to read and follow instructions. Make sure you understand how to use the firework to avoid property damage and possible injuries. Remember, all fireworks can be dangerous if misused. Ask the sales person about the product.
Know your environment. Be aware and mindful of where you will be using fireworks. In previous years, our region has banned fireworks during drought conditions to avoid fire hazards. Locally that may not be the case this year; however, you may encounter restrictions if you are traveling out of state and other areas.
Know who will be using them. Children should not use some fireworks. Make sure you purchase fireworks that are appropriate for those who will be using them. Check for safety guidelines and always supervise children. If you are having family and friends over to celebrate you may want to consider what liability you are incurring if they are hurt on your property, or if they damage a neighboring property. It may be worthwhile to consult your homeowners insurance and you may want to limit who actually handles the fireworks.
Know your location. Keep in mind that in a crowded subdivision, fireworks with a long flight path pose the risk of hitting neighboring property or people. Also, using airborne fireworks under tree cover could pose risks of unintended ricochets and fire. Unfortunately, fireworks frighten many household pets. If you live in a neighborhood with animals, you may consider limiting what you buy to low volume explosion items.
' Also, remember these safety tips when children are involved around fireworks, especially the popular hand-held sparklers. Remember safety is your number one objective.
' Always remain standing while using sparklers.
' Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
' Never hold or light more than one sparkler at a time.
' Never throw sparklers.
' Sparkler wires and sticks remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop spent sparklers in a bucket of water.
' Teach children not to wave sparklers or run while holding them.
To read additional consumer and business tips, go to www.bbb.org.
Jim Winsett is president of the Better Business Bureau of Chattanooga.