Sparkling skies, vibrant bursts of color, and a sense of awe – fireworks have been a national tradition since the dawn of our nation. Although they’re a lot of fun, they can also be dangerous, especially around power lines. It’s imperative to include safety on the agenda for your Fourth of July celebration, so before you start your festival of freedom, check out these tips:
Tips from the U.S. Product Safety Commission :
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.
Light fireworks one at a time, then move quickly away from the fireworks device.
Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Power Line Safety
Look Up : Make sure there are no power lines or other obstructions before you light the fuse. If a firecracker hits a pole or wire, call us immediately at 888-869-7688. It could cause a spark, fire, or injuries to those nearby or at least outages for you and your neighbors. Call 9-1-1 if it’s an emergency.
Look for the Green Box : Pad-mount transformers carry a lot of electricity. You and your children should never sit on them or play near them. Please don’t use them as fireworks launch pads.
Report Downed Lines : If you see a power line down, stay at least 50 feet away and call 9-1-1 and Santee Cooper at 888-869-7688.
Tie Down Foil Balloons : Mylar balloons can cause outages when they encounter a power line as the metallic coating conducts electricity .
If there is a community fireworks display, your best bet is to settle in and let the professionals handle it.
Enjoy your 4th of July!