Firework safety for a more festive Independence Day
Holidays are more fun when pets and people are safe and happy
CM Life illustration | Caroline Sharbaugh | Presentation editor
Fireworks are a summer staple and popular around Independence Day, but some caution is required to avoid injury or violation of Mount Pleasant ordinances.
On June 22, the city sent out a reminder with the specifics for some of these laws.
First and foremost, fireworks should only be discharged on private property, and only between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. from June 29 through July 4.
According to the city’s firework safety ordinances, fireworks shouldn’t be possessed, purchased or discharged by a minor.
“The best way to protect your family is to avoid the use of fireworks entirely,” a release from the city said.
But if you’re planning to use fireworks, they provided a few safety tips:
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions
- Never allow children to play with fireworks of any kind
- Wear protective clothing, including eyewear
- Only light devices on smooth, flat surfaces away from residential areas, dry leaves and flammable materials
- Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction
- Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned.”
Humans aren’t the only ones who need to stay safe around fireworks. Pet owners may need to help their furry friends stay safe and calm.
Animal Health Associates in Mount Pleasant recommended a few ways to keep dogs calm through the loud noises.
“One of the first things is to make sure your dog has a collar or microchip on them,” said Dr. Colleen Martin, a veterinarian with AHA.
She said it’s difficult to predict how animals will react most of the time, so identification will make it easier for them to be returned home if they try to run away.
“Keep them home if you don’t know, and keep identification on them," she said.
Martin added that products like Thundershirts -- a form of comforting blanket that takes the edge off of some spooky critters -- and pheromone sprays can help pets too. She recommended a spray called “Adaptil” for dogs and “Feliway” for cats.
Using fireworks is not the only time to be cautious in the summer. Spending more time outside can mean a higher risk of injury.
One way to prepare for time outdoors is putting together or updating a first aid kit. The Health Advocate blog lists several year-round items that go into a kit, along with some, like the following, that are more fitting for summer:
- Sunscreen
- Aloe vera
- Lip balm
- Anti-itch cream
- Insect repellant
For the complete list of summer-specific additions, along with their year-round essentials, visit the Health Blog Advocate’s website.
Some people, however, are more likely to be spotted vacationing in the city than camping outdoors. The Health Advocate blog also lists a few ways to prepare for a vacation that prevent accidents and keep the fun times rolling.
Some of their suggestions include:
- Staying hydrated
- Packing prepared
- Learning about safety alerts at your destination
- Paying attention to what you’re doing
- Limiting alcohol consumption
