Broadcaster Press 07 June 25, 2013 www.broadcasteronline.com The Dos and Don’ts of Fireworks Safety DO check any safety guidelines and warnings on the wrapper of the fireworks before lighting them. DON’T buy fireworks from just anyone. You want to ensure you are purchasing them from a reputable retailer of legal fireworks. DO emember not to light fireworks near people, trees, homes, or any combustible materials. DON’T shoot fireworks off in windy conditions. Otherwise, make sure the prevailing wind is blowing away from the audience. DO keep a fire extinguisher or water hose nearby in the event of a fire. The National Fire Prevention Association notes that the Fourth of July features more reported fires than any other day of the year. DON’T let small children handle or light fireworks. DO make sure spectators keep their distance. They should be 25 to 40 feet away from ground-based items and even further for aerial products. DON’T forget that sparklers and firecrackers are no safer than other types of fireworks. The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1200 F, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns and is hotter than the temperature it takes to melt glass. DO wait 15 to 20 minutes after lighting a firework to see if it has ignited. If not, dump the firework in a bucket of water and move on to a fresh firework. DON’T shoot fireworks off of uneven ground. To ensure stability, always light them on a hard, flat and level surface. DO make sure that no part of your body over the firework when lighting it. Use a punk or long butane lighter to keep as far away as possible. DON’T overindulge in alcoholic beverages when lighting fireworks. Your perception and dexterity can be compromised by alcohol. HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! 115 W. Duke, Vermillion, SD 605-677-7073 Ludey’ s Ready Mix 1016 E. Cherry St Vermillion, SD 624-3511 Have a Happy 4th of July! Craig K. Thompson Law Office 109 Kidder St. • PO Box 295 Vermillion, SD 624-2097 Knutson Family Dentistry Dr. Richard Knutson • Dr. Matthew Knutson Caring Professional Staff Professional Grade Service Commercial • Residential • Industrial 605-624-7000 God Bless America 605.624.6291 1714 E. Cherry, Vermillion Excellence in Dentistry God Bless America (605) 624-8151 PO Box 395, Vermillion, SD 624-5618 Clay County Abstract & Title 121 West Kidder Street #104 Vermillion, SD 57069 605-624-2068 contact@claycountytitle.com Have a Safe & Happy 4th of July! Ty’s Building SERVICE OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE CARPENTRY WORK 605.624.2695 201 W. Cherry, Vermillion, SD • New Construction • Remodeling • Concrete Work 201 W. Cherry, Vermillion, SD www.broadcasteronline.com 605-624-4429