Fireworks Safety Tips for a Fun and Festive Fourth of July

As you know, we here at Rolf’s Import Auto care greatly about the safety of you and your family. As the Fourth of July nears, it’s incredibly important to stay safe as the firecrackers go off, the sparklers twinkle, and the kids want to be in the middle of it all. Take a look at these fireworks safety tips to make sure your Independence Day goes off with a (safe) bang!

 

Keep it legal.
Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with directions and the manufacturer’s name; illegal fireworks are typically unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place.

 

Limit your children’s participation.
Children should be fireworks spectators—not lighters. This is the best way you can ensure their safety, as fireworks can shoot off unexpectedly or in unanticipated directions. Also, pick up the used fireworks yourself. Some fireworks may still be ignited and could explode—don’t allow kids to touch them.

 

Handle sparklers with care.
Sparklers may seem like the gentlest of fireworks, but they can reach 1,800°F.  Always monitor your children when they have sparklers, and be sure that they keep them outside and away from their face, hair, and clothing.

 

Point fireworks away from homes and brush.
The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.  Pointing fireworks away from homes and brush can help prevent fires.

 

Dispose wisely.
Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trashcan.

 

Be prepared
Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case an accident occurs.

 

Keep them out of your hand.
Lighting a firework in your hand is a surefire (no pun intended) way to get injured. Only light fireworks on the ground! Bonus tip: don’t carry fireworks in your pocket—it’s possible that the friction could set them off.

 

Keep pets safe.
Fireworks can cause fear and anxiety for animals, which can lead to them running away. Protect your pet by keeping them indoors as the fireworks go off.

 

Rolf’s Import Auto wishes you a fun, festive, and most importantly, safe Independence Day.