Safety Measures
- First Procedure
Source: http://safety.lovetoknow.com/Safety_Measures_When_Using_Fireworks
Fireworks are a boldly and beautiful way of celebrating special occasions but you should always follow the safety measures when you are using fireworks. Remember to avoid and not turn the celebration into a disaster. The first thing to stop and not prevent any firework accidents it is crucial to handle the charges safely from the first purchase through the last disposal.
- Purchase
Purchasing appropriate fireworks is the first step toward enjoying their colorful display in safety. Purchase only legal fireworks. What types of fireworks are legal varies from state to state; check local laws for current restrictions.
- Storage
Storing fireworks can be tricky: if stored improperly, they could lose their charge, weaken, or even prematurely ignite. Store fireworks in a cool, dry, dark location. Keep stored fireworks away from potential heat sources such as light bulbs, furnaces, engines and other combustible materials. Store fireworks out of reach of children and pets.
- Lighting
So the first thing is to follow the proper safety measures when using fireworks is critical to preventing injuries and accidental fires. When lighting fireworks, follow these safety precautions. Always obey all local laws about where and when to light consumer fireworks; if fireworks are banned, do not light any items.
- Disposal
After the fireworks have been used, they can still cause serious burns or start fires if not disposed of properly. Effective safety measures include these disposal tips. Let used fireworks cool before handling, or pick them up only with tongs or protective gloves.
- When Accidents Occur
Each year, thousands of accidents are mainly caused by fireworks. Many of the accidents are caused by injuries and explosions. So if you take the safety measures you can help prevent the injuries from happening. Know basic first aid burn treatment techniques before lighting fireworks.
- Second Procedure
1. People that are launching or viewing the fireworks are to stand at least 300 metres from the actual firework. The reason for this is to minimise the risk of accidental launch.
2. Only legal fireworks should be launched. Usually, the crowd of viewers are not aware that the firework can cause harm to others due to the amount of gunpowder.
3. Wear proper safety gear when lighting the firework. This is essential. Some of this gear are gloves, protective suit and a hat (preferably a hardhat).
4. Fireworks are to be lit at a reasonable time distance from the previous one (approximately 10 or 20 seconds at the least).
5. In case of an emergency, viewers should be prepared to exit through an emergency exit. This can be useful especially when chemicals shower the viewing area.
- Third Procedure
5 step procedure on how to be safe with fireworks (Source: http://www.wikihow.com/Be-Safe-With-Fireworks)
1. Always use fireworks outdoors. Using them indoors is dangerous.
2. Do not hold lit fireworks in your hand. Don't attempt to launch bottle rockets, light and throw firecrackers, etc. It's foolish and dangerous.
3. Aim Roman candles away from yourself and others. Roman candles can cause serious injury if they ignite near your body. It goes without saying, but do not try to shoot people with them.
4. Have a hose or bucket of water on hand. Always have water on hand for explosives gone awry. Dump water on chain explosives. Always dump water on Roman candles, firecrackers, etc. Even after they have gone off, the smoldering firecrackers still present a fire hazard. They should be left to soak outdoors in a bucket of cold water, and disposed of carefully the next day.
5. Stand back from all fireworks once they are lit. Do not go near fireworks once they are lit. The explosions may burn you if made contact with your skin.
Watch the following video to learn how to stay safe with fireworks.