USFA and Safe Kids USA Encourage Fire Safety During Independence Day Celebrations

The U.S. Fire Administration and Safe Kids USA are encouraging families and individuals to prepare for a safe and memorable Independence Day celebration by practicing safe grilling and leaving the fireworks to the professionals.

Fireworks

As can be noticed in may of the region’s neighborhoods, many children and adults are fascinated by fireworks. However, they can be extremely dangerous.  According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s annual death and injury report on fireworks, approximately 40 percent of fireworks injuries occur to children younger than 15 years of age.  In addition, CPSC received reports of three fatalities related to fireworks in 2010.

To access this CPSC report, please visit:

CPSC: 2010 Fireworks Annual Report

The best way to protect family and friends is not to use any fireworks at home. Instead, one may attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.

Fireworks Fire Safety Tips

• Sparklers are not toys.  They can reach 2,000o Fahrenheit--hot enough to melt some metals.
• Leave pieces of fireworks on the ground after an event.  Some may still be ignited and can explode.
• Stand several feet away from the professionals lighting fireworks; fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.

For more information related to fireworks safety, please visit:

U.S. Fire Administration: Focus on Fire Safety: Fireworks

Safe Kids USA

Grilling

On Independence Day, many Americans look forward to picnics, camping, and other outdoor activities.  The holiday, however, also brings fires and injuries due to outdoor cooking.  By taking a few fire safety precautions, one can ensure that everyone enjoys a safe Independence Day.

Grilling Fire Safety Tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces such as tents, they pose a fire hazard and a risk of exposing occupants to deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas, and foot traffic.  Grills should be positioned  at least 10 feet  away from siding, deck railing, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep, matches, lighters, and starter fluid out of the reach of children in a locked drawer or cabinet.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area: declare a three-foot "kid-free zone" around the grill.
• Use long barbeque mitts and long-handled grilling tools to protect the chef from heat and flames when cooking.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.

For more information about grilling fire safety, please visit:

U.S. Fire Administration: Summer Fire Safety: Grills, Fire Pits, and Campfires

Safe Kids USA