Fourth of July Safety Tips

Central Oregonians know how to celebrate Independence Day. There are an abundance of activities to choose from, including parades, festivals, rogue bike rides, barbecues, and of course plenty of fireworks. While fireworks are meant to be entertaining, it’s important to use common sense and follow safety precautions while using them to avoid injury. More than 10,000 fireworks-related injuries occur each year in the United States. The most common parts of the body that are injured by fireworks are hands and fingers, but serious injuries can also occur to the face, body, and legs.

The safest way to view fireworks is to leave it to the professionals at the public displays.

If you plan on celebrating with your own fireworks, here is what you need to know to stay safe:

  • Do not allow children to play with or light fireworks, including sparklers. They can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees.
  • Wear glasses or safety goggles to protect the eyes from sparks or flying debris.
  • Spectators should stay a safe distance away from the person lighting the fireworks.
  • Never place any part of your body over a firework and back up immediately after lighting a firework to a safe distance.
  • Only use legal fireworks.
  • Only light one firework at a time. Never relight a firework that did not work properly.
  • Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away.
  • If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention.

Have fun and stay safe this holiday weekend!