Take care when handling fireworks

Fireworks are a staple of many Independence Day celebrations, and state and health officials are warning people to be careful when handling them.

Fireworks are not toys, said Acting State Fire Commissioner Charles McGarvey.

“First and foremost, we want people to understand the risks, how to properly handle fireworks and to encourage users to be courteous to their neighbors and communities,” he said.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that, in 2020, fireworks were involved in an estimated 15,600 injuries treated in hospital emergency departments nationwide. Approximately half the reported injuries were burns, with the head, eyes, face or ears being the most frequently impacted.

McGarvey gave the following suggestions:

• Never allow children to play with fireworks, even sparklers, which can burn at temperatures of at least 1,200 degrees.

• Allow adults to light fireworks only one at a time, then quickly back away.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of a fire.

• Never pick up or try to relight fireworks that have not fully ignited.

• After the fireworks have burned, fully douse them with water before picking them up or disposing to prevent trash fires.

• Never use fireworks after consuming alcohol or other medications or substances that can impair judgment or the ability to react quickly to an emergency.

• Whether attending a professional display or using consumer fireworks always remain at a safe distance from where fireworks are ignited.

• Be sensitive of neighbors and their pets.

National Fire Protection Association statistics show fireworks start more than 19,500 fires per year and cause an average of $105 million in direct property damage.

Pennsylvania law restricts the purchase of fireworks to those who are at least 18, and they must use Class C, otherwise known as consumer-grade, fireworks. Certain restrictions apply, including:

• Fireworks cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner.

• They cannot be discharged from within a motor vehicle or building.

• They cannot be discharged toward a motor vehicle or building.

• They cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether or not a person is present.

• They cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug.

Local ordinances might include additional restrictions. People always should check with their municipality before purchasing or using Class C fireworks.

Further advice and seasonal fire safety tips can be found online at www.osfc.pa.gov, by clicking on “Be Fire Safe PA.”