If it can’t be sane, keep the Fourth safe

Fireworks and celebrations seem to go together, especially during

Fourth of July. But fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious

burns, eye injuries, blindness, lost appendages and even a lost home.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks this Fourth of July is to attend

an outdoor public display put on by professional pyrotechnicians .

Remember, fireworks are illegal in Laguna Beach.

Last year the Orange County hospitals were inundated with injuries

due to fireworks. Children between the ages of 10 and 14 are at the

greatest risk. Two of every five people injured by fireworks were

under 15 years old and almost two thirds were under 25.

Please don’t venture to Mexico to obtain items such as m-80s,

m-100s, roman candles, whirly gigs and blockbusters. Aside from being

dangerous these are federally banned explosives.

If you plan on traveling during the holiday to another country or

even state that allows fireworks please follow these important tips:

Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. They are

not toys; they burn has hot as a match.

Read and follow all warnings and instructions.

Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from any

buildings, dry leaves and flammable materials.

Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.

Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.

Only light one firework at a time and keep your supply of

fireworks well away from the area where you are lighting them.

Light your fireworks at arms length. Keep your body back and reach

out to light a fuse. Never light fireworks in your hand.

Sparklers burn at heat exceeding 700 C degrees and should not be

given to young children or waved in people’s faces. As soon as a

sparkler goes out, put it in a bucket of water.

Clean up after your fireworks display and make sure all the

fireworks are out and nothing can start a fire.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July.

For more information about safety or Neighborhood Watch, call

Laguna Beach police officer Coleen Wallock at (949) 497-0382.

-- Joe Jahraus