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| |    Fireworks Safety Overview by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. reviewed by Kathryn Clark, M.D., F.A.A.P. For many Americans, fireworks are the defining feature of a Fourth of July celebration. And like many people, you probably have fond childhood memories of whistling rockets and sky-high explosions of color. For some, the memories are of going to see grand public displays at a city park or a baseball game. For others, the celebrating involved going to the corner stand and buying a variety of sparklers, smoke bombs, and miniature versions of the "real thing" to set off with other kids in the neighborhood. At the time, you may have thought fireworks were the greatest thing since sliced bread--and some of you may still feel that way. But now you need to look at fireworks from a parent's perspective in order to keep your family safe during the holiday celebrations. Remember that fireworks are not toys. The dangers involved Unfortunately for thousands of people each year, fireworks are responsible for creating memories of a far more unpleasant nature, involving eye, hand, or burn injuries or worse. Public fireworks displays very seldom cause injuries; instead, it's the misuse of fireworks by unsupervised children that is often to blame. If you haven't given much thought to your child's use of fireworks, you should be aware that almost two-thirds of all fireworks-related injuries occur in the month of July, and most of these types of injuries involve children between the ages of 5 and 14. And lest you be lulled into a false sense of security by believing that only illegal fireworks are dangerous, you also should know that a recent study by the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) found that two-thirds of fireworks-related injuries were, in fact, caused by legally allowed fireworks. Legal issues The CPSC is the federal agency responsible for issuing regulations regarding the use of fireworks by the general public. Since 1976, it has banned the use of any firecracker containing more than 50 milligrams of explosive material. It's also a law that all fireworks must be labeled. In addition, different states have different laws concerning the use of fireworks. In fact, 10 states have banned all consumer fireworks, and 6 only allow the use of sparklers and other "novelties." How to use fireworks safely There's no denying it: Fireworks can really add sparks to a holiday or special event. Just remember that ultimately, your child's safety is up to you. If you decide to allow your children to use fireworks, be sure to follow important safety rules, starting with the most important one of all: Always provide adult supervision. For more useful information, try these links: The American Academy of Pediatrics The Consumer Product Safety Commission The American College of Emergency Physicians The American Pyrotechnics Association Fireworksafety.com
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