Exploding Myths: The Dangers of Consumer Fireworks
So, your'e thinking of using fireworks to celebrate the upcoming Independence Day. Please be aware that even the most mundane consumer fireworks contribute to the greatest number of injuries every year in the United States.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) tells us, "“Sparklers and novelties alone accounted for 32% of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2009.” They also say, “84% of the fireworks injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms involved fireworks that Federal regulations permit consumers to use.”
Did you know that a simple sparkler can reach 1200° Fahrenheit? I've always wondered why we tell our children to stay away from hot things in the house, yet we seem to be willing to hand a sparkler to children as young as three and say, "wave it around!" We all contribute to their confusion and misunderstanding of dangers when we send such mixed messages.
For more information, you can download this NFPA Fact Sheet about fireworks.
