Whitchurch-Stouffville
June 28, 2008 11:01 PM
By: Yentl Lieuw
More fireworks are likely used on Canada Day than any other holiday and that means safety is a big issue.
To minimize the risk of fire and burn injuries, Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services has tips to avoid tragedy.
Most important, go to muncipal fireworks displays instead of doing your own.
If you still want to do it yourself:
• Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and safety precautions should handle fireworks;
• Carefully read and follow directions on fireworks packaging;
• Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks;
• Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from the discharge area;
• Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks. Soak duds in a bucket of water and dispose of them in a metal container;
• Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard;
• Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for some minutes after burnout, it should be soaked in water to avoid injury and;
• If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to five minutes and seek medical attention, if necessary.