*Can you imagine an M80 firework going off in your hand? Can you imagine a direct hit in your eye by exploding fireworks? There are many, many such incidents happening across America as people engage in fireworks activities whether legal or illegal.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: “In 2021, there were an estimated 1,500 emergency department-treated injuries associated with firecrackers and 1,100 involving sparklers. In 2021, the parts of the body most often injured by fireworks were hands and fingers (an estimated 31 percent of injuries) along with head, face, and ears (an estimated 21 percent).”
While we honor our military and veterans, let’s also respect them. A publication at Veterans Affairs says: “Although beautiful to behold, fireworks displays are triggering for people with PTSD, many of whom struggle with loud noises. Symptoms of PTSD, which stem from a shocking or terrifying experience, can be triggered by sights, sounds, or smells that other people find tolerable or even enjoyable.”
Let’s also keep in mind that fireworks in drought regions don’t mix. In 2021, Jennifer Balch, director of Earth Lab at the University of Colorado said, “Some regions of the American West are experiencing their worst drought conditions in more than a century this year. People setting off fireworks at home is a concern because of both the tinder-box conditions ripe for starting wildfires and the threat of injuries.”
Fireworks said to be invented by the Chinese some 2000 years ago, were used at the start of a new year to scare away evil spirits. Why it has become such a fixture in America for the Fourth of July is beyond me when there are so many people who don’t even know the history or meaning of Independence Day. To them, it’s just another day for a risky thrill and a barbeque. Speaking of evil spirits, in today’s culture in America, is there an alternative to firepower in our everyday lives?
Tips to Celebrate Safely
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move quickly away from the fireworks device.
- Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
- After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Happy Independence Day! Happy Fourth of July!
Larry Buford is a contributing writer. Author of “Things Are Gettin’ Outta Hand” and “Book To The Future” (Amazon). Email: LBuford8101@hotmail.com
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