The Fourth of July is a fantastic summer day to light up the sky above you with fireworks if it’s allowed where you live. However, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) revealed that more fires occur on Independence Day than at any other time of the year. Fireworks cause more than 50% of those incidents and injuries. That’s why you need to take extra measures before lighting up the firecrackers. Here are nine firework safety tips to protect your family and neighbors as you celebrate the Fourth of July.

1. Designate a Responsible Shooter

   Have a responsible, sober adult as the designated shooter. The person should use protective eyewear while shooting to protect their face and eyes from fireworks-related injury.

2. Research Your Fireworks Beforehand

   Only use consumer or Class C fireworks, and never light up professional-grade (Class B) products in your backyard. Buy your fireworks from a licensed dealer and thoroughly review the product’s safety and warning labels.

3. Only Use Legal Fireworks

   Consumers are prohibited from making their own fireworks, such as by bundling several fireworks together and shooting them off as one. Also, you shouldn’t ignite a firework with more than 50 milligrams of explosive substances as that’s illegal, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association(APA).

4. Know Your State and Local Fireworks Rules

   Only use the types of fireworks allowed in your location, such as California, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. In states like New York, New Jersey, and Delaware, you can’t buy or use any type of consumer fireworks. Make sure to strictly follow applicable federal, state, and local safety rules where consumer fireworks are legal.

5. Reserve Some Water for Minor Fire Incidents

   With a hose connected to your home water, you’ll be ready to put out any deviant flames. When a firework fails to ignite when lit, don’t touch it right away–it could be a delayed starter. Instead, hose it down and wait about 20 minutes. Then, soak it in a bucket of water for roughly 20 more minutes before removing it.

6. Observe Safety Standards for Igniting Fireworks

   Place all fireworks on level, steady ground, and avoid uneven or unstable options like dirt, gravel, or grass. When igniting the fuse, do not place any part of your body directly over the firework, especially your hands and face.

7. Know Your Environment Well

   Make sure any crowds gather 15 feet or more away from lit cones to avoid burn injuries in case any fireworks tip over. Also, never set off fireworks near gasoline or other combustible material.

8. Minors Shouldn’t Touch Fireworks

   Your children should only view the event from a safe distance and under the supervision of an adult. Make sure they don’t handle any fireworks and teach them about spectator safety.

9. Prepare to Offer Help in Case of Injury Emergency

   If you are going to light fireworks this Independence Day, learn the basics of first-aid. You can seek out medical advice through professional websites. You should call 911 in case of an injury emergency or take the victim to the hospital immediately.

Enjoy the Independence Day with McCarty Insurance

Keep these firework safety tips in mind ahead of a secure, eventful Independence Day. For an additional insurance safety net, contact us at McCarty Insurance today. Our team will be happy to help customize your insurance policy for all your needs.