Tomorrow is bonfire night and although firework displays are cancelled and outdoor gatherings of more than 6 people prohibited this year, some families may revert to setting off fireworks privately in their gardens.
With no organised displays, it’s as important as ever to be safe around fireworks, especially if you’re handling them yourselves. We’ve decided to publish a handy guide on being safe and handling Fireworks. If not handled properly, fireworks can of course cause burns and eye injuries in kids and adults.
We hope Blantyre residents use fireworks responsibly and are mindful especially that pets and some people don’t like loud noises.
Fireworks Safety Tips
- Kids should never play with fireworks. Things like bangers, rockets, and sparklers are dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can exceed boiling temperatures.
- Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer’s name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Never try to make your own fireworks.
- Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
- Steer clear of others setting off fireworks. They can backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.
- Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even as a joke.
- Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear eye protection, and don’t carry fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.
- Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from trees, wooden structures and flammable substances.
- Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.
- Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited, still hot or if not gone off properly can explode at any time.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.
- Think about pets. Animals have sensitive ears and can be very frightened or stressed by 5th November and other big celebrations. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they’ll run loose or get injured. Why not leave the TV or radio on to mask some of the noise.
If an Injury Happens
If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital.
If an eye injury happens:
- Don’t let your child touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage.
- Don’t flush the eye out with water or try to put any ointment on it.
- Cut out a circle of paper, place it around the eye to inhibit light, and get medical care right away — your child’s eyesight may depend on it.
If your child is burned:
- Remove clothing immediately from the burned area.
- Call your doctor immediately.
There are growing efforts by retailers to sell quieter or silent fireworks, this year more than ever, perhaps a sign of things to come. Some retailers not selling them at all.
Fireworks are a long tradition, meant to be enjoyed, but we’ll all enjoy them much more knowing Blantyre families are safe. Wrap up, have fun.
