WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2004 — This holiday season Americans will send out the old and welcome in the new with a display of colors, noise and brightness. The National Council on Fireworks Safety encourages everyone to enjoy the holiday season safely and responsibly. Whether living in cold climates or warm, the use of consumer fireworks during the holiday season is growing. What was once a 4th of July tradition is now becoming part of many New Years celebrations. Fireworks retailers from the warm weather states of Florida and Texas to the colder climates of Minnesota report an increased interest in consumer fireworks during the last part of December.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety urges everyone to use consumer fireworks in a safe and responsible manner. The Council offers the following safety tips:
* Only buy from reliable consumer fireworks dealers.
* Always read and follow instructions. Use common sense. Always have an adult present.
* NEVER give fireworks of any kind to young children.
* Use fireworks outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles.
* Light only one firework at a time.
* Never experiment with home made fireworks.
* Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Be responsible.
* Do not point or shoot a firework at another person.
Travelers should also be reminded that the FAA prohibits fireworks on any flight. They cannot be checked as baggage or carried on.
The safety trend in consumer fireworks safety is very positive. In 1976 the Consumer Products Safety Commission established federal standards for consumer fireworks. Since the enactment of those stringent standards the injury rate from consumer fireworks has decreased by 88%. The National Council believes this is due to the increasing level of safety education as well as the ever-improving quality of legal consumer fireworks.
For more information on the safe use of consumer fireworks, state laws and regulations please visit our website at http://www.fireworksafety.com. For questions contact Jim Winner at 724-866-4425.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a charitable organization. Its mission is to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. The National Council on Fireworks Safety creates and distributes safety booklets and flyers, videos and public service announcements. They also conduct an annual media outreach program.
For additional information about the fireworks industry visit the following websites:
The American Pyrotechnics Association. The leading trade organization of the fireworks industry, the APA is made up of retailers and manufacturers of consumer and display fireworks. http://www.americanpyro.com
The American Fireworks Standards Laboratory is an independent non profit organization established by members of the fireworks industry. The AFSL administers design and performance standards. The AFSL's mission is to reduce the potential risks associated with the use of consumer fireworks. Additionally, the ASFL conducts extensive testing of fireworks product at factory levels in China. Contact the AFSL at Email.
Contact: Jim Winner, Public Relations, 724-866-4425, info http://www.fireworksafety.com