In the News - May 2008
Make your Memorial Day celebration a safe one
CAMDEN, Ark. - Just about everyone enjoys a good fireworks display, but
fireworks can be dangerous or even deadly.
"Always read and follow label directions," says Ryan Francis, a Ouachita
County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
Francis' list of "dos" and "don'ts" can be divided into two lists—"always"
and "never":
The "Always" List
- Always have an adult present.
- Always buy fireworks from reliable sellers.
- Always use fireworks outdoors only.
- Always light only one firework at a time.
- Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
- Always wear eye protection.
- Always stay away from illegal explosives.
- Always dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water; then
place them in your trash can.
The "Never" List
- Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
- Never re-light a "dud" firework. (Wait 15 to 20 minutes, and then soak
it in a bucket of water.)
- Never give fireworks to small children.
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
By following these guidelines, your family and friends can have a safe and
happy Fourth of July.
For more information on fireworks safety, please contact your county
extension agent. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A
Division of Agriculture.
May 16, 2008
By Elizabeth Hill
For the Cooperative Extension Service
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
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