Jul 6, 2017 4 min read

Q.I’m a grandpa to two great teen boys, ages 14 and 16. I try to stay out of my son’s parenting, but I’m worried. When I was a teen, a few of my buddies and I got hold of fireworks and set them off. Badly. One of my friends lost a finger. It could have been a lot worse. My son says I’m worried about nothing and his boys are old enough to handle fireworks, but I’m not sure. My wife says our son reads your column, and if he doesn’t, she’ll make him read this one! Can you please talk about fireworks safety? Thanks.

Mary Jo’s response: I received your email July 3; this column runs on Thursdays, so it will go to print after the Fourth. Your request is an important one, though, so I’ll address it.

As a grandparent, I know how precious grandchildren can be. Your desire to protect them shows your love. Your own adolescent experience causes anxiety. If you haven’t shared the reason for your angst with your son and grandsons, I suggest you do so now. Your enhanced awareness of danger is worthy of attention.

Here are some tips for safe fireworks use:

1. Fireworks are for adults: I’m sure your grandsons are competent young people; adult supervision is still important. Your son needs to be there and guide the experience. Even sparklers can be dangerous. Sparklers burn with the heat of a blowtorch.

2. Fireworks are illegal in some areas: Obey local laws and set a good example for young people.

3. Read labels: Know cautions for individual fireworks. Fireworks in brown paper wrappings are professional. Don’t buy those.

4. Know where to use fireworks: Always use fireworks outside, in a clear area, never around children or pets, and away from buildings or vehicles.

5. Store and handle carefully: Never carry fireworks in a pocket, never relight one that does not go off.

6. Keep a bucket of water and water hose near: If a firework is a “dud,” put water on it, wait 20 minutes and soak in the bucket of water. Don’t cover a firework with any part of your body.

7. Know how to use fireworks: Light one firework at a time and move away to a safe distance. Never point or throw fireworks at someone. Do not use homemade fireworks. Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.

8. Be aware of others: People who are sensitive to loud noises or bright lights may find fireworks threatening. Be aware of individuals with PTSD or those living with a disability who are troubled by noise.

9. Clean up safely: Wet down spent fireworks and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

10. Report illegal explosives, like M-80s, to the police or fire department.

Some online resources are: The National Council on Fireworks Safety http://www.fireworkssafety.org/safety-tips/ and http://www.parents.com/holiday/july-4th/safety/fireworks-safety/

Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email podmj@healthyteens.com.