Firework Safety for the Whole Family

The Fourth of July is an excellent time to gather with friends, family and community to celebrate the independence of our nation. Unfortunately, it's also a holiday that lends itself to numerous safety hazards for kids (and adults). One of the greatest of these is fireworks. What kid doesn't love watching the noisy and colorful fireworks displays, setting off their own fireworks, or playing in the backyard with sparklers? As fun as they may be, fireworks are anything but child's play.

Each year, hundreds and thousands of fireworks related injuries are reported. According to Safe Kids USA, 3,300 children ages 0-14 were injured from fireworks in 2009 alone. Approximately seventy percentage of those incidents occurred in the weeks surrounding the Fourth of July. Take this Fireworks Safety Quiz to find out how much you know about kids and fireworks safety.

The National Council of Fireworks Safety offers a variety of pointers and rules for using fireworks. Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind to have a safe Fourth of July this year:

Note: Remember to check with your local police department to determine which, if any, fireworks are legal to discharge in your neighborhood, county or state.

• Only use fireworks outdoors.

• Buy fireworks from reliable sources.

• Always have water and/or sand handy (a garden hose and a bucket) when operating fireworks.

• Do not try to re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15-20 minutes and then soak it in water).

• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.

• Never try to make your own fireworks.

• Read and follow directions carefully before handling them.

• Do not throw or point fireworks at other people.

• Never carry them in your pocket.

• Always use protective eye-wear when lighting fireworks.

• Never lean any part of the body over the fireworks.

• Never allow small children to handle fireworks.

• Always have a responsible adult present around children and fireworks.

• Only light one firework at a time.

• Whenever storing fireworks, keep them in a cool, dry place.

• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

• When at a public fireworks display, leave your own fireworks at home (including sparklers). They should not be set off around a crowd of people.

• Never handle a firework component that hits the ground without exploding at a public display. Instead, contact the local fire department or police department to properly and safely dispose of it.Keep pets away from public fireworks displays. They have extremely sensitive ears that may be damaged, especially dogs.

Are you taking your toddler to watch a public display this year? Check out these great tips on how to how to prepare your toddler for the 4th of July fireworks.

Enjoy your Independence Day celebration with your kids, and stay safe!

You may also enjoy these fun and patriotic Fourth of July crafts for kids created by this author.