TNT Fireworks Encourages Safety, Fun for Fourth of July

Fireworks safety is a mandatory first step to a happy 4th of July weekend.

Many Americans choose to celebrate their independence and express their patriotism on the Fourth of July with fireworks and sparklers. TNT Fireworks, the nation’s largest distributor of consumer fireworks and novelty items, wrote this article to encourage families nationwide to follow these simple steps from the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) to ensure their celebrations are safe:

 TAKE PRECAUTIONS. Always keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies.

 LIGHT ONE AT A TIME. NEVER light two or more fireworks or sparklers at the same time.

 KEEP IT OUTSIDE. Only use fireworks and sparklers outdoors on flat, hard surfaces in clear areas and away from houses, buildings and dry grass.

 HAVE ADULT SUPERVISION. NEVER allow young children to light or handle fireworks or sparklers. Be aware of the minimum permitted age in your state. Adults should always be present when lighting or handling fireworks or sparklers.

 STAY ALERT. NEVER mix alcohol or other substances with fireworks or sparklers.

 STAY CLEAR. NEVER hold a lit firework in your hand. Keep as far from them as possible when lighting.

 LET SLEEPING FIREWORKS LIE. NEVER try to relight fireworks or sparklers that do not ignite. Wait 15 to 20 minutes before approaching them, then soak them with water and throw them away.

 PROTECT YOUR PETS. Animals are often frightened by the sounds of fireworks. Protect your “best friends” by keeping them indoors, secure and away from the loud, sudden noises.

 Always check local and state laws to identify which products are legal, and only purchase those permitted by law. Also, check the label and instructions on fireworks and sparklers to ensure they come from a reliable, legal and licensed source.

 Americans consume more than six times the amount of fireworks now than they did less than forty years ago. In that same time period, fireworks-related injuries in the United States plummeted from 38.3 to 3.3 – per 100,000 pounds consumed – according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC).

 For more information or to speak with Sherri Fallin, spokesperson for TNT Fireworks East, please contact Chris Giallanza at (404) 446-1677.

 ABOUT TNT FIREWORKS

TNT^® Fireworks (TNT) is the nation’s largest distributor of consumer fireworks and sparklers.  For more than 50 years, TNT has set the benchmark for safety, customer satisfaction, innovation and quality in the fireworks industry. For more information about TNT Fireworks, visit www.tntfireworks.com.

 ABOUT THE AMERICAN PYROTECHNICS ASSOCIATION

The APA is the leading trade association of the fireworks industry. The APA supports and promotes safety standards for all aspects of fireworks. The APA has diverse membership including regulated and licensed manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, importers and suppliers of fireworks. Additional information about the fireworks industry, facts & figures, history of fireworks, state laws, and safety tips can be found on APA’s website at www.americanpyro.com.