FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 24, 2005
CONTACT: Chris Boyle, Public Relations Associate
860-545-9956 or pager 860-220-3569

CONNECTICUT SAFE KIDS SUGGESTS SAFETY IN YOUR FOURTH OF JULY SPARKLE

HARTFORD, Conn.—When summer rolls around, thoughts turn to the bright and colorful fireworks displays that take place on the Fourth of July.

While some families gather at community parks or organized events to view professional fireworks shows, many families choose to hold their own festivities in their neighborhoods or backyards. Unfortunately, many of these celebrations, intended to be exciting and fun, can quickly turn into a nightmare.

The one exception to the prohibition of the private sale, purchase, possession, or use of fireworks in Connecticut is sparklers. Sparklers are defined as any sparkling device of not more than 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture per item, which are non-explosive and non-aerial, are legal but may be sold, purchased or used only by persons at least 16 years of age or older.

Every year, more than 5,000 children nationwide ages 14 and under are treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries, and children 10 to 14 account for most of these incidents. Nearly 75 percent of these injuries occur during the month surrounding the Fourth of July.

Connecticut SAFE KIDS—a program of Connecticut Children’s Medical Center that is sponsored by the Connecticut Elks—recommends that families only enjoy the dazzle of fireworks at a community-sanctioned, licensed event. Many communities hold fireworks displays sponsored by the local fire department or other safety agencies.

"Children are often attracted to the bright colors of fireworks but don't understand their dangers, which can lead to tragic and painful consequences," said Karen Brock, MPH, director of Connecticut SAFE KIDS. "It is important to educate children on the dangers of fireworks and emphasize that only adults should handle them."

If any sort of fireworks, including sparklers, are used at a your Fourth of July event, Connecticut SAFE KIDS recommends following these guidelines to ensure a safe holiday celebration:

• Only adults should handle fireworks. Only those 16 or older can sell, use or purchase fireworks. Children that they should leave the area immediately if their friends are using fireworks.
• Discuss safety procedures with your children. Teach children “stop, drop and roll” if their clothes catch fire. Make sure they know how to call 911. Show them how to put out fireworks by using water or a fire extinguisher.
• Read labels and carefully follow directions. All fireworks must carry a warning label describing necessary safety precautions.
• Never use fireworks indoors.
• Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never place your face or any other body part over fireworks.
• Never try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.