Count to 10 on your fingers January 2nd and other good fireworks ideas

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WEST COLUMBIA SC (WOLO) — Fireworks date back to 7th century China, where they were utilized to ward off evil spirits.  Fact forward a couple thousand years, and the business of fireworks is well in excess of $1 billion, with the two largest days in the industry being July fourth and New Year’s Eve.

Along with all of the bottle rockets, roman candles, and even sparklers comes injuries from careless or uneducated use.  According to the National Council of Firework Safety, there are nearly 10,000 serious injuries reported each year in the United States.  This number does not include minor burns or un-reported accidents.

According to Mike Hughes from Discount Fireworks of South Congaree, there are several easy things you can do to ensure that you have all your fingers after the celebration.

“If you are using a small ground display, use bricks,” says Hughes, in order to stabilize the base from falling over and pointing toward people or property.

Hughes also says to make sure you understand how to light the display.  “Any reputable fireworks dealer is going to know how each unit works, and will be willing to show you.”

Some other tips that Hughes offers to people who want to impress their friends with a display include:

• Never give fireworks to children
• Wear safety glasses
• Use fireworks outside
• NEVER relight a “dud”
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix

Hughes says that having a full bucket of water is also a must have for the area where you intend to light of your fireworks.  “Some displays can stay hot, or even active for 20 minutes after they shoot off,” says Hughes, who goes on to say that once used, cakes and candles should be put in the water bucket.

A favorite of every kid…and many adults…are sparklers, which are beautiful to watch and write your name in the air with.  Sparklers, however, can be very dangerous, burning at about 2000 degrees.  Hughes offers a simple solution to protect little fingers while taking part in the celebration.

“Take a Solo cup,” says Hughes, “and put a small hole in the end.  Then place the sparkler through it, and hold onto it when your hand inside the cup.”

Hughes feels that with a little common sense and education, your fireworks display will leave guests with “OOO’s” and “AWWW’s” without the “OWWWW’S”

You can learn get more safety tips and fireworks education at the Discount Fireworks of South Congaree page HERE.