4th of July Safety Tips for Sparkling Memories

The 4^th of July is approaching and I find myself reflecting back to days of old. To be or not to be is the question many parents ask themselves. Will I be a worry wart and overprotective like my parents were with me? Or will I be more easy going and give my kids a little more leeway? These are the questions that come up before you have children and go out the window once they are here. It’s only then that you realize that you will be whatever you need to be from a stern drill sergeant to a cream puff at times to ensure your child is happy, healthy and successful. And it usually means being exactly like your parents were with you!

Every 4^th of July we would attend a family reunion and there would be plenty of fireworks around. My parents would not allow us to get near any. I always wished I could join in the fun with the other kids. Now as a parent, I recognize the danger of fireworks and appreciate their approach. But the great news is there are ways that your children can enjoy fireworks and can have great memories of this special time of year.

I’m sure you can relate to letting someone else do the work. This is the best approach for fireworks safety. Attend a public fireworks display and leave the lighting to the professionals. At my home we get a great view of the fireworks. We invite our friends and family over to make S’mores and watch the display. 

If you still feel compelled to allow your children to experience some fireworks of their own keep the following tips in mind offered by The National Council on Fireworks Safety. 

• Always read and follow label directions.
• Have an adult present.
• Buy from reliable sellers.
• Use outdoors only.
• Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
• Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).
• Never give fireworks to small children.
• If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
• Stay away from illegal explosives.

This 4^th of July I’ll be at home watching the fireworks display. I hope that you will be safe and have a blast this holiday!