Photograph by Kathy Bell, owner of kbella photography.
Have you decided where you will be watching fireworks on the Fourth? Perhaps Thunder on the Mountain in downtown Birmingham, the Trussville Freedom Celebration or the Homewood Independence Day celebration? Maybe at the beach? All good plans. But if you are going to shoot your own pyrotechnics, use common sense. Some fireworks safety tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission and 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.
Remember, alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your location before firing them. If you do fire them, please be safe!
