Independence Day means fireworks — better be safe. Tod Pritchard with Wisconsin Emergency Management notes that every 4th, thousands of people end of in hospital emergency rooms.
“Unfortunately, so many children are injured. About one-third of the injuries involve kids under the age of 15,” Pritchard said. “Obviously we don’t allow kids to ignite fireworks. Keep them away from the ignition location.”
Even the most common 4th of July standby has its own hazards. “A sparkler can get to 1200 degrees,” he said. “You can get a serious burn off of that.”
Pritchard suggests that adults wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks, and keeping a bucket of water or a garden house nearby is also recommended.
And Prichard said pets and fireworks definitely don’t mix — keep Fido and Fluffy indoors.