You may want your children to join in the fun if you love lighting fireworks for Diwali, or during any other special occasion. However, it must be kept in mind that safety for kids is of utmost importance.
Children are always eager to experiment with new things; however, fireworks are best lit by adults. They are unsuitable for young children, who are more likely to get injured. That said, you can introduce fireworks to older kids. Let them use them under your supervision, following all safety instructions.
Keep reading to learn when and how to introduce fireworks to children and important safety tips.
What Is The Appropriate Age For Playing With Fireworks?
An adult must be present when children use fireworks to prevent hazards. Sparklers are suitable for children aged seven and older. But younger children should avoid handling fireworks to prevent accidents.
Preschoolers
If your child is below four years, you can take them to public firework displays. They can watch the display from a distance as you talk about fireworks and why they emit so much light and noise.
Elementary And Middle Schoolers
Elementary and middle schoolers can light up fireworks that are not too loud. These could include snakes, cone fountains, spinners, and ground-bloom flowers. As they do not shoot up or move unexpectedly. These need to be used under close adult supervision. Standing in an open area and keeping a bucket of water or sand nearby are some safety precautions.
High Schoolers
High schoolers can experiment with more variety. They can use rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, and shells. Ensure they take necessary eye safety and hearing protection precautions even when supervised by an adult. Before they fire rockets and other aerial fireworks, tell them about how these can travel in unexpected directions and cause danger to younger children and others in the vicinity.
How To Introduce Fireworks To Children?
Every child is different and might react to fireworks differently. Even if your older child enjoyed fireworks the first time around, it doesn’t mean your younger child will enjoy them too.
Keep the following tips in mind while introducing fireworks to kids so that they can enjoy them as much as you do.
- Talk About It Beforehand
- Consider Their Fears
- Have A Plan B
- Keep Yourself Equipped
- Watch From Afar
- Control Your Anxiety
- Select A Spot With Other Families
- Carry Earplugs
If you plan to take your child to a firework display, do not spring it on them at the last moment. Instead, talk to them about it beforehand. Explain how fireworks work and also talk about the light and sound that most fireworks emit. This way, your child will be prepared for the display and not be disturbed by it.
If your child seems fearful of the fireworks, do not call them silly or childish. You should also not compare them with other children by saying how comfortable the others are. Instead, take cognizance of their fears and stay close to them. Talk to them about each firework before it goes off until they are calm enough to recognize a pattern.
If your child does not like fireworks, display responsible behaviour and do not force the experience on them. Have an alternative plan where you can all enjoy equally without distressing your child. It can be a movie at home or a family picnic. Any activity that can keep your child happy is worth considering.
It is not enough to take your child to a fireworks display. You must be equipped with certain things that will help keep them in a good mood. When you are at a display, remember that it will stretch on for hours. Carry snacks, drinks, and plenty of diapers and wipes so that you are equipped for any eventuality.
Often, fireworks can be watched from afar. You can consider this option if your children are afraid of the noise. Fireworks that go off far away look brilliant, and the noise is considerably less. You and your children can get the best of both worlds.
Children can sense your anxiety even if you do not exhibit it explicitly. They can then get anxious themselves. The calmer you are during a fireworks display, the more relaxed your children will be.
If a firework display is being organised at a beach or a school, you can take your children along. It can be a learning and calming experience for your children. They can observe other children of their age and feel reassured.
Whether your child is sensitive to noise or not, it’s essential to bring earplugs for hearing protection. Even the bravest of children are likely to be overwhelmed by the noise after a certain point in time. If possible, carry earplugs and get a favourite plush toy or a blanket so that your child feels safe.
Safety Tips For Introducing Fireworks To Children
Regardless of your child’s age, it’s crucial to always remember some safety tips. Keep this in mind when introducing them to fireworks to cut risks. Here’s a list of Dos and Don’ts.
Dos
- Check local guidelines to see whether it is legal to burst fireworks in your area.
- Read the warning labels on every box of fireworks you buy.
- Light fireworks in an open area and away from buildings and flammable materials.
- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby.
- Make sure there are no other people in the immediate vicinity.
- Douse the burnt fireworks in the water before leaving.
- Seek medical attention immediately in case of any injury.
- Keep your pets in a room with soundproof windows.
- Light one firework at a time.
Don’ts
- Do not allow young children to play with fireworks or go near them.
- Do not handle fireworks when you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Do not buy illegal fireworks or those of inferior quality.
- Do not re-light or pick up a firework that has not fired properly. Put it in the bucket of water after 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do not use any containers to ignite fireworks. Containers such as glass bottles or metal boxes should be avoided at all costs.
- Do not hold fireworks close to your body.
- Do not bend over fireworks while lighting them.
- Do not use homemade fireworks.
- Do not carry fireworks in your pocket.
Playing with fireworks can be fun and exciting but can lead to serious injuries if safety precautions are not taken. The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System reported 935 firework-related injuries between 2018 and 2020. With the hand being the most commonly injured body part.
Fireworks safety for children is crucial to prevent injuries and make celebrations enjoyable. As a parent, you should always supervise your children, follow all safety precautions, and provide them with guidance. By taking the necessary steps, you can create a fun and safe environment for your children to experience the excitement of fireworks.
