Phantom Fireworks Promote Safety in Ringing in the New Year

Phantom Fireworks Promote Safety in Ringing in the New Year

Youngstown, Ohio (Tuesday, December 28, 2004) - Millions of Americans across the nation will ring in the New Year with sparklers, firecrackers, trick noisemakers and a wide variety of consumer fireworks in their backyards and on their cul-de-sacs.

"More and more Americans are purchasing fireworks as a part of their New Year's Eve festivities as well as other celebrations, in addition to the traditional holidays such as Independence Day", says William Weimer, Vice-President of B.J. Alan Company- Phantom Fireworks (www.fireworks.com). "Traditionally, we've experienced a growth in consumer purchases in December. Customers have purchased fireworks as holiday gifts, and they will now shop our showrooms this week in planning for their New Year's gatherings." Currently, Phantom Fireworks has 42 retail showrooms operating in 12 states.

In an effort to ensure that the holiday season is a safe one, Phantom Fireworks and the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) have provided the following basic safety tips for using consumer fireworks over the winter holidays:

-Be a smart consumer. Always purchase fireworks from an established retail outlet. Never purchase or use dangerous explosives such as M80s.

-Follow the rules. Observe local laws; check with your local police or fire department to determine what fireworks can be legally discharged in your area. Never build or experiment with homemade fireworks. If local laws do not allow use of consumer fireworks, enjoy a professional fireworks display.

-Use common sense. Be sure to read and follow directions before using. Carefully inspect purchased fireworks. Be sure they're not leaking powder and that all items are well constructed. Avoid items that appear to have been wet and have since dried out.

-A parent's job is never done. Adult supervision should be constant during all fireworks activities. Young children should never be given fireworks to handle- even sparklers can be unsafe if used improperly.

-One is the best number. When igniting fireworks, light one at a time, move quickly away and keep spectators back at a safe distance. Do not use any containers such as bottles or cans to launch fireworks.

-Never use fireworks indoors. Always ignite fireworks outdoors in a clear area- away from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials.

-Stay out of the line of fire. Never shoot, aim, or throw fireworks in the direction of another person.

-Protect yourself. Wear eye protection when using fireworks. Never put any part of your body over a firework.

-Have water nearby. Always have a bucket of water handy to soak finished sparklers and other 'hot' devices. Also, keep a garden hose in the area for emergencies.

-Do not re-ignite. Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Do use or soak fireworks in a bucket of water; wait 15 minutes before properly disposing.

The fireworks industry has experienced unprecedented growth during the past decade with annual fireworks usage exceeding 220 million pounds. And, while fireworks usage has skyrocketed, the fireworks-related injury rate has fallen by a startling 88% since the current federal regulations for consumer fireworks were promulgated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1976. "The best way to enjoy fireworks is to make safety your first priority," adds Weimer. "It is a New Year's resolution that Americans can make good on."