Be Careful when Lighting Fireworks
City Hall’s Buildings and Real Estate Safety Commission (COSEDI) warns of the necessary precautions to be taken when igniting fireworks. Fireworks add that little extra something to June parties and the commemoration of World Cup matches, but improper handling can cause fires, skin burns and injuries to the fingers, hands and face.
When purchasing fireworks, be sure to observe some factors: The sale of all fireworks to minors is prohibited by law. The dealer should also collaborate with public safety by not selling anything containing gunpowder to people under the influence of alcohol.
COSEDI’s coordinator, Hermes Peyerl, says it is important to observe the state of the product’s packaging. The box must be dry, with no sign of moisture. “Damp packaging shows that the product was not stored in an appropriate place, therefore, the fireworks may be damaged and cause accidents”, said the coordinator. “The cold weather in Curitiba often affects the storage of the anything containing gunpowder.” It is also critical that the expiration date be observed. The older the material, the greater the chance of it being spoiled. “Both the dealer and the manufacturer are responsible for the quality and safety of the product,” said Hermes Peyerl. Any product exhibiting damage or signs of alteration must be returned to the location where it was purchased.
Additional tips: Before letting off fireworks, carefully read the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Fireworks must be ignited at a minimum distance of 20 metres away from the public or canopies, eaves, electric power cables, telephone or power lines. If there is no detonation, fireworks cannot be reused or thrown close to the spectators. This is a major cause of accidents. Children should not handle or stay in close proximity to fireworks. Snaps (estalinhos), which can be sold to minors, should be handled only with parental supervision.
Firework displays need to be done by professionals in isolated places, away from crowds of people.
COSEDI can provide guidance to the public on the installation of firework batteries, firework displays, retailing and risk classification.
