[July 04, 2009] Fireworks safety ... for you and pets Tweet Jul 04, 2009 (The Charlotte Observer - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- While fireworks manufacturers say the number of people injured by their products each year is dropping, medical and law enforcement officials say they still see a large number of fireworks users hurt every Fourth of July holiday. Here are some tips on keeping safe -- and preventing your pets from suffering too much from the exploding and whistling fireworks in your neighborhoods: HUMAN SAFETY -- Never give fireworks to small children. -- Always follow instructions on the packaging of fireworks. -- Make sure the person lighting fireworks wears eye protection. -- Light only one fireworks item at a time, and never attempt to relight a "dud." -- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. -- Never throw or point fireworks toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. -- Stay at least 500 feet away from professional fireworks displays. -- Leave any area where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. TIPS FOR PETS -- It's safe to leave your pets at home, instead of taking them with you to a friend's or relative's house for a holiday party. -- Keep pets indoors, if possible. Some dogs tend to jump fences when fireworks go off. -- Once the fireworks start exploding, keep pets in a safe room where they feel comfortable. You might want to leave a blanket with the dog or cat, to make them feel more secure. -- Close the blinds and turn on the television -- or play soothing music. -- If possible, spend some time with your pet, to make the animal feel safer. To see more of The Charlotte Observer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.charlotteobserver.com. Copyright (c) 2009, The Charlotte Observer, N.C. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email [email protected], call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]