We use fireworks to celebrate many occasions - especially on the 4th of July.
Did you know?
- The first commemorative Independence Day fireworks were set off on July 4, 1777, quite possibly at the suggestion of America's first VP - John Adams.
- Fireworks are chemical reactions - two or more substances coming together to form something new.
- Fireworks get their bright colors by burning elements.
- Each element produces a different color.
- Our favorite element, aluminum. produces silvery white flames.
- Aluminum is also one of the main components in a sparklers.
- Sparklers can get REALLY hot - 2000 degrees! Almost twice melting point of aluminum, aka, molten metal!
- The longest sparkler ever made was 12 feet long, crafted at the New Jersey Fireworks Manufacturing Co. Inc.
- Macy's 4th of July fireworks show commonly considered the largest in the country - firing off 3,000 different shells a minute, 75,000 shells in total.
- Kentucky is giving Macy's a run for the money. Thunder Over Louisville, part of the Kentucky Derby Festival. According to their website, "In just 24 years, what started as a better than average fireworks display has become the pinnacle of pyrotechnics. Thunder is the nation’s largest annual fireworks event."
- Leave it to the pros! That's absolutely the safest way to enjoy the holidays.
- Fireworks are illegal in many areas. If you choose not to leave it to the pros, be sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks at anyone
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs. 44% of victims of firework related deaths had used alcohol or drugs prior to the incident.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.
- After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.
- If you REALLY like fireworks and want to go out - literally go out - with a bang - check out Heavenly Stars Fireworks.
Be safe and enjoy your holiday!
Sources: US Consumer Product Safety Commission, policygenius.com, smithsonianmag.com