A safer July 4th

July 02, 2008 06:38 pm

— William Swope Jr. hopes that a sagging economy will discourage the sale of fireworks in Kentucky. If so, Independence Day will be much safer.
For the record, Swope is the state fire marshal. He recognizes that even John Adams — one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and our second president — suggested that Independence Day be celebrated with “games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other from this day forward for ever more.” However, Swope would prefer that the “illuminations” be limited to fireworks displays conducted by professionals who know what they are doing.
For one thing, Swope correctly says a “pyrotechnics show” like the one on Ashland’s riverfront Friday night “is a much more exciting experience than setting off fireworks at home.” But more importantly, shooting off fireworks in the backyard “carry substantial risks for little reward,” Swope said.
In 2007, hospitals across the nation treated nearly 10,000 people injured by home fireworks. More than 90 percent of the injuries were caused by legal fireworks, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
And injuries are not the only problem caused by home firework. The NFPA reports that there are more fires in the United States on Independence Day than any other day of the year, with most fires caused by fireworks. In 2005, the latest year in which figures are available, fireworks caused an estimated 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires.
However, simply citing statistics about their hazards is unlikely to convince many from purchasing fireworks for their own backyard displays. That’s because we tend to think that those who are injured or start fires with firecrackers are reckless fools who didn’t know what they were doing. We, on the other hand, are convinced we can set off fireworks safely.
Thus, many are hoping that the sagging economy accomplishes what safety precautions do not. Instead of spending $50 or more for fireworks that can be set off in a matter of minutes, they may opt to save their money and take in the pyrotechnics on the riverfront.
However, for those who insist on having their own backyard displays, Swope offer the following advice:
-- Always read and observe label directions.
-- Remember to keep water handy.
-- Always have an adult present.
-- Never re-light a “dud” firework.
-- Don’t give fireworks, including sparklers, to small children.
-- Stay away from dry vegetation.