Want to have a safe fireworks display? Tips to avoid a trip to ER on Fourth of July

People across the United States will light fireworks on Monday to celebrate Independence Day. But it is extremely important to stay safe while lighting fireworks or even while watching someone else do it. Earlier this week, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said that 18 people died in 2020 due to fireworks-related incidents. There were 15,600 people that were treated in hospital emergency departments for fireworks injuries in 2020, the CPSC tweeted ahead of the Fourth of July weekend.

Also read: Haven’t bought July 4 fireworks yet? Get ready to break the bank

Here are some tips by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to be followed while lighting fireworks:

– Do not allow young children to light fireworks.

– Avoid buying firecrackers wrapped in brown paper. This packaging indicated that the fireworks had been made for a professional display.

– Sparklers burn at a temperature of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and are hot enough to melt metal. Please make sure that children light sparklers only in the presence of an adult.

– While lighting the fuse, ensure that no body part is directly over the launch tube.

– Move to a safe distance as soon as you have lit the firework.

– Light only one firework at a time.

Also read: Why are fireworks synonymous with Fourth of July?

– Do not try to re-ignite fireworks that did not ignite completely. Douse such fireworks with water.

– Never throw or point fireworks at another person.

– Don’t carry fireworks in a pocket.

In Washington, a mega fireworks display will take place at the National Mall. The event is expected to be attended by thousands. On the west coast, San Diego was readying to stage one of the largest July 4 parties in the country, with fireworks discharged from four barges around the bay.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will welcome 1,000 military personnel with their families and essential workers for the largest in-person event at the White House since he took office.