6 ways to keep kids safe around fireworks

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – It’s Parenting Connection Tuesday and 6 News is here for you with tips, strategies, and helpful reminders from child development experts on how we can be better parents and guardians.

Today’s topic: 6 ways to keep kids safe around fireworks.

Every fourth of July, thousands of people are injured while using consumer fireworks. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, victims aged 15 to 19 years old have the highest rate of ER visits from fireworks-related injuries — and children aged 5 to 9 have the second highest. Experts say, despite all the warnings, every year, there’s a “it won’t happen to me or my child” mentality that usually gets in the way… and without following safety protocol, boom, a child or teenager gets severely hurt.

Safety officials say the parts of the body most often injured by fireworks are hands and fingers, accounting for about 35% of total injuries. Stats also show about 42% of the emergency department-treated fireworks-related injuries were for burns. So, here are 6 ways to keep kids safe around fireworks:

• Only set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer use, not professional use.

• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.

• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.

• Find a Substitute for Sparklers. These can heat up to 1,200 degrees and account for nearly half of all 4th of July burns.

• Be prepared for problems. That means keeping a bucket of water or a garden hose handy and having a first aid kit nearby.

• Leave Fireworks to the Pros. Safety officials say the best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home and instead, attend public fireworks displays.

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