By Staff
Practice proper firework safety this New Year
The use of fireworks has become versatile. Not just a staple for the Fourth of July, citizens across the nation will be using some form of fireworks to celebrate the year of 2006.
On New Year's Eve, the skies will be glowing as the city of Atmore rings in the new-year. However, if not used carefully, fireworks can cause serious injuries.
The United States Fire Administration estimated that in 2003, at least 9,300 injuries were reported. The injuries were a result of improper fireworks-usage. Firecrackers proved to be the most dangerous, followed by bottle rockets and sparklers.
The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System found that nearly half of all fireworks-related injuries occurred to children under the age of 15.
The most important thing for adults to remember is to keep a watch on children. Never allow children to shoot fireworks without supervision. Fireworks should always be used outside, in an open area.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Council on Fireworks Safety offer a few safety tips for the holiday weekend in hopes of keeping you out of the emergency room:
Follow these safety tips this New Year's Eve to ensure a Happy New Year.