July 1, 2011

CHILDREN ARE MOST AT RISK FROM FIREWORKS

     As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, many Hoosiers are looking forward to celebrating the holiday with fireworks.  The White River Township Fire Department and the Indiana State Fire Marshal's Office are reminding citizens that fireworks can be very dangerous, especially handled by children, and are encouraging fireworks' consumers to follow a few common sense safety tips to help keep the festivities safe.

"On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day," says Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson.  "Half of these fires are caused by mishandling of fireworks and result in millions of dollars in property damage.  Consumers should always use fireworks responsibly to avoid potential injuries to themselves, spectators and firefighters."

The Indiana Fire Marshal's Office is a division of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

Fireworks safety for children

According to the National Fire Protection Association, two out of five people injured by fireworks are under the age of 15, and children ages 10-14 are the most at risk from fireworks. Compared with the general population, they are more than twice as likely to be injured.

 

Despite their seemingly relative harmlessness, sparklers and small firecrackers cause the most fireworks-related injuries. Sparklers burn at about 1200^o Fahrenheit which is 300^o hotter than the temperature at which glass melts. Glow sticks or glow sparklers make an excellent alternative to sparklers, especially for young children.

 

General fireworks safety

• Only purchase and light 1.4G consumer fireworks.  Examples include bottle rockets, roman candles and firecrackers.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
• Do not alter any fireworks device or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Use a clear open space and keep your audience a safe distance from the ignition site.
• Light one(1) firework at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework.
• Never let children handle, play with or light any fireworks.
• Have a fire extinguisher, hose, bucket of water or other water source nearby.
• Be cautious when lighting fireworks when it is windy.
• Never smoke or drink alcoholic beverages when handling any type of fireworks.
• Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Use fireworks outdoors, never indoors. 

Fireworks laws

• Only individuals 18 years of age or older may purchase fireworks
• In general, fireworks may be discharged on some holidays, including Independence Day from 9:00am to 12:00 midnight.  On most other days of the year, fireworks may be discharged from 9:00am to 11:00pm.  However, check with local officials about when you can discharge fireworks, as local ordinances may further restrict usage.
•  Fireworks may only be discharged on your property, the property of someone who has granted permission or at designated discharge locations.
• Known the laws for your area and obey them!  Penalties are in place for violations of Indiana's fireworks laws.
• Contact the White River Township Fire Department or your local department if you have any questions about acceptable fireworks practices in your area.

 

For more information about fireworks laws and safety tips about using fireworks, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.

                                                          
   

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