This is the time of year when we start hearing all sorts of cautionary warnings about the potential dangers of fireworks. Regardless, each year, thousands of people end up with injuries from fireworks—both legal and illegal—and most of those people are children. Even with the most careful attention to safety, mixing children and fire (not to mention, explosives) can be a recipe for disaster.
Even the most innocuous legal fireworks—such as sparklers—present a safety hazard to children. Whenever there is fire, there is the potential for burns. Even if an adult manages lighting all the fireworks, having children near lit explosives is unsafe. With sparks flying and exciting children, injuries are bound to happen.
Many families have made the shift to “watching” fireworks instead of doing them on their own. Even small towns offer professional firework displays and Fourth of July activities where children can participate and enjoy the festivities—without actually holding or touching items that are on fire. How can we NOT confuse our children about fire if we let them play with fire on Independence Day and then warn them about its dangers throughout the rest of the year? It is becoming increasingly accepted to avoid personal firework “play” altogether and opt for safer ways of celebrating.
If you do choose to do fireworks, make sure that you choose legal, age-appropriate ones and attend to safety first. Make sure you are in a safe area, away from flammable items, and that you have plenty of water available nearby. You should also have an updated first aid kit accessible. Children should not be lighting fireworks or handling matches or lighters, and should be dressed appropriately and kept off at a safe distance. Pets should also be protected and put away safely indoors. Expect that the noise, fire, and unpredictability will be frightening to both children and pets.
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Are You Ready To Celebrate the Fourth of July?