Sparkling Safely: A School Nurse's Guide to Fireworks Safety
As the warm days of summer arrive and the anticipation of celebrations fills the air, fireworks often become a vibrant part of our festivities. While beautiful and exciting, they also carry significant risks, especially for children and teenagers. As your school liaison nurse, my priority is the health and well-being of our students, and that includes ensuring a safe and injury-free summer. Let's talk about fireworks safety.
Every year, emergency rooms across the country see a surge in fireworks-related injuries, many of which are preventable. These injuries can range from severe burns and eye damage to amputations and even fatalities. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their curiosity, smaller stature, and less developed understanding of danger.
Here's what I want every family in our school community to remember about fireworks safety:
- Leave it to the Professionals:
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend public displays conducted by trained professionals. These displays are regulated and designed for maximum impact and safety from a distance. Encourage your children to appreciate the show from a safe vantage point, far away from the launch site.
- The Dangers of "Safe and Sane" Fireworks:
Even fireworks labeled as "safe and sane," like sparklers, can be incredibly dangerous. Sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures – often over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt some metals! A child's natural instinct might be to wave them around, leading to burns on themselves or others, or igniting clothing. If sparklers are used, ensure close adult supervision, provide a bucket of water for immediate disposal, and never allow young children to hold them. Glow sticks are a fantastic, safe alternative for young children who want to participate in the light-up fun.
- No Second Chances:
Never, ever try to relight a "dud" firework. There's no way to know if it's merely fizzled out or if it has a delayed fuse that could ignite unexpectedly in your hand or near your face. Treat any unexploded firework as live and dangerous. Douse it with water and dispose of it safely, or better yet, leave it untouched and contact your local fire department for assistance.
- Keep a Safe Distance:
If you are at a private gathering where fireworks are being used (and it's legal to do so in your area), maintain a significant distance from the launch site. A good rule of thumb is to be at least 25 feet away for every inch of a firework's diameter. Ensure children understand and adhere to these safety perimeters.
- Supervise, Supervise, Supervise:
Adult supervision is non-negotiable when fireworks are present, even seemingly innocuous ones. Designate a responsible adult to oversee all fireworks activities, and ensure they are sober and attentive. Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Be Prepared for the Unexpected:
Have a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby when fireworks are in use. This can quickly extinguish stray sparks or small fires. In case of an injury, immediately cool burns with cool (not cold) water and seek medical attention.
- Know Your Local Laws:
Fireworks laws vary significantly from state to state and even city to city. What might be legal in a neighboring town could be illegal in yours. Familiarize yourself with and adhere to all local regulations regarding fireworks use. Illegal fireworks can be confiscated, and fines or even jail time may be imposed.
As we look forward to a summer filled with joy and celebration, let's also commit to making it a safe one. A moment of carelessness with fireworks can lead to lifelong consequences. By prioritizing safety and making responsible choices, we can ensure that the only sparks flying are those of happiness and lasting memories.
Have a wonderful and safe summer!
Sincerely,
Your School Liaison Nurse
Available materials to download:
Fireworks Safety
Sparklers can burn at 2000 degrees
Fireworks Injuries & Deaths