Stay Safe with Fireworks This Holiday Weekend
The South Carolina Department of Public Health is urging everyone to stay safe during the holiday weekend. Fireworks can add excitement, but they can also lead to serious injuries.
Recent statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highlight this problem. In the last year, there were nearly 15,000 injuries related to fireworks. Most of these happened around the Fourth of July, with 68% occurring in that time frame. This uptick in incidents has raised concerns about the safety of fireworks.
Heather Kirlough, a program coordinator at the Department of Public Health, emphasizes the importance of safety. “Celebrating is important, but the safety of you and your family is our first priority,” she noted. It’s crucial for South Carolinians to recognize the risks and take precautions.
If you’re planning to use fireworks, here are some tips from Horry County Fire Rescue and the Department of Public Health:
- Never point fireworks at people, pets, or flammable objects.
- Keep children away from all fireworks.
- Have a bucket of water or a garden hose ready in case of accidents.
- Know how to call 911 if someone gets hurt.
- Only use fireworks when you’re sober and responsible.
- Light one firework at a time and follow all manufacturer guidelines.
Experts recommend leaving the fireworks to the professionals whenever possible. Fireworks displays handled by trained teams can be both thrilling and safe if you want to enjoy this festive tradition without the risks.
While many people may see fireworks as a fun way to celebrate, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a happy holiday for everyone.
For more insights and safety tips, check out reputable sources like the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Stay safe and enjoy the holiday!
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