For many people, it’s their favorite time of year: firework season! Fireworks are spectacular to watch with family members and friends. From their brilliant colors to the thrill of watching them light up the sky. Although fireworks are incredible to watch, they can be dangerous.
In observance of National Firework Safety Month, it’s important to know how to be safe and protect yourself while still watching fireworks this summer.
4 Ways to Observe National Firework Safety Month
1. Watch Fireworks from a Safe Distance
When watching fireworks, it’s best to sit a safe distance away. This will help preserve your hearing from the loud blasts and will ensure you aren’t in the range of having any debris fall on you.
2. Only Attend Shows Performed by a Professional
Many people like to shoot off fireworks at parties and cookouts in the summer. However, shooting off fireworks with no experience can be very dangerous. An estimated 11,500 people were injured in 2021 alone in accidents involving fireworks. It’s best to leave the firework shows to the professionals.
3. Protect Your Hearing
Fireworks are extremely loud, reaching a dangerous level of 145 decibels! Just one time watching fireworks too close can be detrimental to your hearing and can result in noise-induced hearing loss. When watching a firework show, be sure to sit a safe distance away and wear earplugs to protect your hearing.
4. Be Careful Even Around Sparklers
Although small, sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees and can easily cause severe burns and injuries. The misuse of fireworks and sparkles can cause serious harm.
Taking firework safety seriously is a good way to be proactive about your health and well-being. You can still enjoy fireworks, just be sure to protect yourself — and your hearing!
Follow these tips in observance of Firework Safety Month! If you plan on watching any firework shows this summer, be sure to wear hearing protection. Find your local provider to schedule an appointment to be fit for custom hearing protection or to have your hearing checked.
