Have a safer July Fourth!

By Heather

I truly love Independence Day. I love the fireworks and my invented tradition of going around the table sharing with friends what I’m happy to be “independent from” (yes, it started with a break-up one year, but it stuck!)

Now that I’m a parent, I have to factor in the safety of little ones as we plan our annual celebration. If I thought that this was the year to introduce my little boys, now three and five, to sparklers, these helpful tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) give me reason to reconsider.

The NFPA reminds us that each July Fourth, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using fireworks. Ugh. Remember that the absolute safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display by trained professionals.

Remind children not to touch or approach any fireworks.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/the_webhamster/3680948700/

Also – huge bummer! – the tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit? That’s 1000 degrees hotter than boiling water! So, unless your kids are smart enough NOT to grab that shiny awesome flame, keep them away. Sorry kids.

Last year, I offered some tips on fireworks safety too. Though we attended a public fireworks display, my son and I still ended up in the ER from an errant ping pong paddle.

Be safe out there!