Consumer Products Safety Commission urge fireworks safety
TAMPA (FOX 13) - Get ready for another spectacular 4th of July. Fireworks displays will light up the skies across Tampa Bay. No doubt about it, its a rush when they explode, shimmer and bedazzle.
But experts say shooting off serious fireworks should be left to the professionals.
Last year, 11 people were killed by fireworks and 11,900 were injured.
The Consumer Products Safety Commission has produced a jarring public service announcement meant to make people think twice about the potential dangers of setting off fireworks at home.
The PSA tells the story of Jason Pierre Paul, a former USF football player who went onto the NFL and became a defensive end for the Giants. When he was igniting a firecracker, it blew off two of his fingers. His once lucrative dream career is over.
The CPSC hopes people pay attention to these perennial common sense safety tips:
*Don't let young kids play with or light fireworks. Even sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees.
*Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose available in case there is a problem,
*Never try to re-light or handle fireworks that are not functioning properly, Soak them in water.
*Never throw or point fireworks at another person.
*Light fireworks one at a time, then move away from them quickly.