Sparklers are a fun tradition for South Bend area children around the Fourth of July holiday. But they also can be incredibly dangerous, especially in the hands of a toddler.
According to the National Safety Council, sparklers can burn at around 2,000 degrees (sometimes more, depending on the brand). That’s really hot to have your little one’s hand so close, and waving it so close to others.
Is it safe for children to use sparklers?
Kevin Moore, emergency department medical director for IU Health, suggested small children shouldn’t handle anything that’s lit, including a sparkler.
The National Safety Council also recommends not allowing young children to handle fireworks, and to closely supervise older children. The National Fire Protection Association recommends glow sticks as a safer alternative to sparklers.
Firework safety tips
Moore recommended the following advice if you’re using fireworks at home:
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: How hot do sparklers get? Why you should consider glow sticks instead for kids
Reporting by Jenny Porter Tilley, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
