Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are so much fun and add to the enjoyment of all celebrations. But they can also be dangerous. Follow along here for some safety tips to ensure you are happy, safe and protected at your next celebration.

Safety Tips

Insane McCain would love for you to enjoy your holidays with a blast! But also, we would love for you to stay safe and happy throughout the event, so please pay close attention to the following tips to keep you and your family safe.
Safety Tip #1

Don't Allow Children to Handle Fireworks!

Children should not handle or light any fireworks. This includes those who may not legally qualify as children due to age, but still act like it. Only responsible adults should do this. Preferably those who have done it before and will abide by the safety precautions for all involved. It would also be great if they were sober.... which means: (see next slide)
Safety Tip #2

Don't Drink and Light Do not consume any alcohol or drugs when handling and lighting fireworks.

The likelihood of an accident when drunk or high while using fireworks is super HIGH... much more so than when you're sober. It's a terrible idea...Alcohol and drugs leads you to take risks and sometimes to make decisions that are not the most sensible... Decisions like shooting fireworks too close to other people.... with that said: (see next slide)
Safety Tip #3

Use Fireworks in an Open Area, Away From Your Audience and Get Away Once Lit.

Always Have a water source nearby. Fires can happen, even if you are very safe. In the event you find yourself facing a fire, make sure you have an accessible fire extinguisher, water supply, hose or bucket of water nearby for emergencies. Pre-planning this is a good move. A connected water hose is best if possible. Do not shoot fireworks where there is a burn ban in place to reduce the chance of fire. If you have had a recent drought, you might want to check local websites for the city or county you live in to make sure there is no burn ban in place. You might also check weather conditions for the time you plan to shoot fireworks. Weather can put a serious damper on the fun!! You should definitely: (see next slide)

Safety Tip #4

Be Cautious In Windy Conditions.

Be cautious of lighting fireworks during heavy winds. If there is a good breeze a'blowin, light fireworks with the prevailing wind blowing away from the spectators. If there is a wind shift during the time you are lighting your fireworks, you should rearrange your shooting site to accommodate the wind shift or stop the shooting until the wind subsides. Wind can not only cause fireworks to go astray, but they can also cause issue with certain kinds of fireworks like tubes or cannons. With that in Mind: (see next slide)
Safety Tip #5

Always Setup and Light Fireworks on Flat, Level Surface.

Always use fireworks on a hard surface to ensure the stability of the items. Grass or gravel are not good surfaces and will likely end up creating an accident. Mortars and Cannon tubes are notorious for falling over if they are not secured. We suggest a piece of plywood and using screws to screw the tubes in place on the flat plywood so they can't fall over. If one of these Artillery Shell cannisters falls over after you light it, and points right at your audience, it'll feel like a war zone. Speaking of weaponry:
Safety Tip #6

Never Use Fireworks As Weapons!

This seems rather obvious. However, we have all read, heard, or been witness to certain fireworks (we won't name them) under certain conditions (we won't define them) being used inappropriately. By no means should you ever use fireworks as weapons, playfully or not. Never aim, point or throw any fireworks at another person or at any property. Being non-sober is no excuse either (see safety tips number 2). Under these conditions, you can never be sure that you won't cause damage or injury to you or your friends or neighbors. Speaking of Neighbors: (see next slide)
Safety Tip #7

Always Be Courteous To Your Neighbors (if you have any)

Notify your neighbors when you are going to shoot fireworks. Some neighbors may be veterans who can be adversely affected by the noise and lights of the fireworks. Some neighbors may have pets that don't care none too much for fireworks and they may want to bring them in or hide them inside during your show. Always clean up your debris, particularly any that lands on someone else's property. If you don't keep these things in mind, you could even run afoul of the local or state Police. That is why you should: (see next slide)
Safety Tip #8

Know and Follow The Laws.

Use Common Sense. Follow your local and state laws regarding the possession and use of fireworks and use good common sense at all times when handling or lighting fireworks. Read all safety tips cautions, labels and warnings. Use only those fireworks permitted under the laws of your state or local jurisdiction in which you will be using the fireworks. Noone should have to spend the night in jail or pay fines for having fun, so do it properly and safely and you won't have to worry about it.