The first fireworks were used as early as 200 BC. The tradition of setting off fireworks on the 4 of July began in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day. Ship’s cannon fired a 13-gun salute in honor of the 13 colonies.
The Pennsylvania Evening Post reported: “at night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks (which began and concluded with thirteen rockets) on the Commons, and the city was beautifully illuminated.” That same night, the Sons of Liberty set off fireworks over Boston Common.
Fourth of July Becomes a Federal Holiday
The tradition of patriotic celebration became even more widespread after the War of 1812, in which the United States again faced Great Britain. In 1870, the U.S. Congress made July 4th a federal holiday; in 1941, the provision was expanded to grant a paid holiday to all federal employees.
Over the years, the political importance of the holiday would decline, but Independence Day remained an important national holiday and a symbol of patriotism.
Falling in mid-summer, the Fourth of July has since the late 19th century become a major focus of leisure activities and a common occasion for family get-togethers, often involving fireworks and outdoor barbecues. The most common symbol of the holiday is the American flag, and a common musical accompaniment is “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the national anthem of the United States.
-History.com
Fireworks Safety Tips: If You Choose to Use Legal Fireworks
If consumer fireworks are legal to buy where you live and you choose to use them, be sure to follow the following safety tips:
● Never allow young children to handle fireworks
● Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
● Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
● Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
● Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
● Never light them indoors
● Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
● Never point or throw fireworks at another person
● Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
● Never ignite devices in a container
● Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
● Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
● Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
● Never use illegal fireworks
Better yet, grab a blanket and a patch of lawn, kick back and let the experts handle the fireworks show.
Sparklers Are
Dangerous
Every year, young children can be found along parade routes and at festivals with sparklers in hand, but sparklers are a lot more dangerous than most people think.
Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers accounted for 29 percent fireworks injuries for children under age 5 in 2022.
Consider using safer alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.
-National Safety Council
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here