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Fortunately, Montana ranks among the lowest in the nation for firework injuries and that’s where we want to remain. Our goal for Public Health is to increase awareness for everyone who engages in firework activities and to help prevent injury or loss of life. One Public Health approach to achieving this is by engaging in an evidenced based best practice for prevention and that is safety education around fireworks. 2010-2012 127 injuries from fireworks (includes both hospitalizations and emergency room visits) 45% of those were to youth and children 17 and under 55% more than ½) were adults. 2/3 of all of the injuries were to males. Adults have more finger, hand and wrist injuries. For children, the most common injuries were burns. July sees the most injuries, followed by June, then January. ---PAGE BREAK--- Always have adult supervision. Make sure the area is safe for fireworks. Never throw or point fireworks at another person. Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers. Never attempt to re-light a firework. Light only one firework at a time. Never have any portion of your body over the firework while lighting. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Always designate an adult to remain alcohol free while igniting fireworks. Keep your pets indoors. Never put fireworks in your pockets. Make sure you have a hose with an adequate water supply nearby. Always soak spent fireworks in water before disposal. Follow the instructions on each firework and always use common sense. Water boils at 212 degrees. ---PAGE BREAK--- Glass melts at 900 degrees. A sparkler will burn at 1200 degrees!!!! Website: co.silverbow.mt.us Facebook: Butte-Silver Bow Health Department