Fireworks and Teens

As Fourth of July approaches, the number of roadside stands selling fireworks has increased. Much to my dismay.

I've always been nervous around fireworks that aren't done professionally. One year, a friend of mine was setting off fireworks behind their house. His wife said to me "Why are you afraid of fireworks?" and I explained that they just seemed dangerous. Not more than a minute or two later, one of the firecrackers misfired and a small ball of fire came at my face! Luckily I had a blanket on my lap and it stopped the firework - but it burnt the blanket.

We were adults and something went wrong. Thousands of people are injured by fireworks every year. It is not safe for your teen to be handling any type of fireworks or firecrackers. Let that to the adults. Better yet, go to your community's fireworks display - that's safest for everyone.