As the Bastille Day holiday approaches: what are the rules to follow for firecrackers and fireworks ?

Firecrackers and fireworks: a pleasure that can turn into a tragedy

The summer period is conducive to festivities and, with them, the use of firecrackers and fireworks becomes widespread. There are those – very secure – drawn by municipalities. And then there are those improvised by individuals… with sometimes dramatic consequences.

Every year, numerous accidents linked to firecrackers and fireworks are recorded. The hands, fingers, eyes and head are the most affected parts of the body, and burns are the most common injuries. Hearing loss is also common.

What recommendations?

If you decide to light a few firecrackers for July 14, check carefully for the presence of the "CE” marking. at the time of purchase. Then, make sure that the rockets and other sparklers are accompanied by information in French, in particular concerning the instructions for use and the age limits: it is necessary to distinguish 4 categories: ;nbsp;: F1 (forbidden to under 12s), F2 and F3 (forbidden to under 18s) and F4 (reserved for professionals).

And to find out if you can set off fireworks in your garden, check with your town hall or department: municipal and prefectural decrees may prohibit them.

Before using fireworks:

Read carefully and follow the instructions carefully; Choose a secure location. Make sure you are in a large enough space. Check for obstacles in the path of the fireworks, such as trees or power lines; Avoid adverse weather conditions. Do not set off fireworks in strong winds to avoid the risk of fire; Follow certain safety rules during use. The person setting off the fireworks must not drink alcohol or consume cannabis. Spectators must keep a reasonable distance. Never relight a firecracker or firework that has not exploded on the first try; Make children aware of the dangers. Explain to them the risks associated with these explosive devices and stress the importance of never handling them without adult supervision.

What to do in the event of an accident?

In the event of a burn, cool the burned area and, depending on its extent and location (face, eyes, etc.), call for help. If it is a torn off finger, do not put the severed limb directly in contact with the ice to prevent it from freezing: place it in a dry plastic bag and wrap this bag in cloth. Then place the whole thing in a second bag filled with ice and call for help.