Celebrate the Fourth of July with Safety in Mind:
5 Essential Firework Safety Tips for Rural Communities
Fireworks can bring joy and excitement to communities and give people a reason to gather, but safety should always come first! At Rural Physicians Group we know that preventing injuries is just as important as treating them. Rural communities often have limited emergency services so proactive safety measures can prevent serious injuries and light the way to safer celebrations. Here are five expert-backed tips to keep your celebrations both fun and safe this holiday weekend…
Check Local Laws & Regulations
Firework laws differ widely especially in rural areas and areas that may be experiencing a drought. Before setting off those fireworks, verify what’s legal and safe in your region. An easy way to do this is to visit your county or state fire marshal’s website for up-to-date guidelines. For example, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers a helpful overview of fireworks regulations.
Choose a Clear, Open, Outdoor Space
For the safest experience, use fireworks in a wide, open, outdoor area. Be sure to clear away dry grass, leaves, and other flammable debris. Spectators should be at least 35 feet back for small aerials and 150 feet for larger displays. The NFPA highlights this distancing as a key safety measure – It is essential!
There is No Such Thing as a “Dud”
If a firework doesn’t ignite, it is best to assume it is now active. Don’t pick it up or touch it for at least 20 minutes. You may then carefully soak it in a bucket of water before disposal. According to Firework Safety guidelines from the National Safety Council, these steps prevent unexpected re-ignition and serious burns.
Have Water and First Aid Nearby
Keep a garden hose or bucket of water close at hand for sparks or accidental fires. In addition, you should always have a first‑aid kit and fire extinguisher nearby (and know how to use them). Prevention and preparedness go hand-in-hand when it comes to celebrating safely.
Supervise Children & Avoid Sparklers
Never let young children handle fireworks…yes, even sparklers! Did you know sparklers burn at over 1,000°F! Instead, assign adults to supervise and light fireworks from a safe distance for children to view. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, sparklers cause nearly a quarter of firework-related injuries in children! For a safer alternative to sparklers, try fiber optic wands, glow sticks, or bubble wands.
Want to avoid all of the above? Skip the backyard fireworks and head to a professional show near you. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and a few snacks and let the pros light up the sky safely and spectacularly!
Looking for an even safer and eco-friendlier option? Drone light shows are becoming a popular alternative to traditional fireworks. These high-tech displays use synchronized LED drones to create stunning patterns in the sky without the fire risk, noise pollution, or smoke. It’s a family-friendly way to enjoy the magic without the hazards.
Whether it’s fireworks or drones, choosing a public display means more peace of mind and more time enjoying the moment with those who matter most.
TLDR? No problem. Here are the Spark Notes:
- Follow the law by researching local restrictions.
- Host displays in safe areas, free from hazards.
- Dispose of misfires correctly by letting them cool and soaking in water.
- Stay prepared with water and first‑aid measures.
- Protect little ones by keeping them away from fireworks.
- Avoid at-home fireworks altogether and attend a professional show instead.