Sparkler Safety for your family on the 4th of July!
When I was a child, I loved watching and setting off fireworks. Of course, when I was really young, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on sparklers. There is something about the bright sparks flying everywhere in the darkness of the night. As a child, you don’t realize the danger that is hanging from your little fingertips.
Did you know that sparklers can burn at 2000°F? This is as hot as a blow torch! 16% of all consumer fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers burning hands and legs. Most of the documented injuries have to young children. These injuries could have been prevented if some basic safety steps would have been prevented.
(Safety tips follow the graphic below)
When used correctly, sparklers are safe. I cannot imagine not celebrating the 4th of July or New Year’s without sparklers. They are so much fun!
So here are some safety tips when using sparklers…
- Children under the age of 12, should use sparklers under VERY CLOSE adult supervision.
- Do not sit down while using sparklers. Always remain standing.
- Only hold one sparkler at a time. Remember, these little sticks get as hot as a blow torch!
- Always wear appropriate footwear. Closed toe shoes should always be worn when using sparklers. Being barefooted and using sparklers can be a very painful combination.
- Drop the spent sparklers directly into a bucket of water. The wire/stick remain very hot after the flame has been extinguished.
- Never hand a lit sparkler to another person. The best practice is to hand a person the unlit sparkler, then light it.
- Stand 6 feet apart from another person.
- NEVER throw sparklers.
- Hold sparklers away from your body at arm’s length. Children must be shown how to correctly do this.
- (This one is tough) – Teach children not to wave or run with sparklers.
Even though the 4th is a holiday, we do have technician on call.
We hope that you have a very safe, relaxing 4th of July.
