'Safer' fireworks substitute creates its own hazard

It was only a year ago when we were talking about banning fireworks altogether because conditions were so dry.

It will take a long time to recharge the ground moisture, but without even adding in all of the overnight precipitation, we've received almost three-quarters of an inch more precipitation than normal for the year, 11.63 inches of moisture.

Last year, we had received only 5.99 inches by today.

Thanks to the rain, firefighters, especially rural firefighters, should get a little bit of a break compared to their usual Fourth of July activities next week.

But that doesn't mean adults should let their guards down when it comes to fireworks hazards related to Independence Day, especially when it comes to celebrating with small children.

The old wire-cored sparklers, infamous for staying hot enough after going out to burn tiny, bare feet, have been outlawed, replaced by sparklers with bamboo sticks.

Another "safe" substitute, however, resulted in 433 calls to the Nebraska Poison Center last year, many around the Fourth of July.

The substitute -- glow sticks -- contain a liquid called dibutyl phthalate, which has a very strong chemical taste and odor and can cause irritation to the mouth.

"Concerned parents often call because their child's mouth is glowing, or they have gotten the product in their eyes," according to a release from the center.

For the record, there's no need to run to an emergency room if your child does get some of the liquid in their mouth or eyes. Call the center at (800) 222-1212 (program it into your phone or post it on the refrigerator) to find out what to do.

To avoid that call, don't allow kids to repeatedly bend or chew on glow sticks, and keep them away from kids under the age of 3. That's also good advice because the liquid can cause stains.

Conventional fireworks are a poisoning hazard as well, of course, so keep them away from small children who might be attracted by bright and colorful packaging. They contain nasty substances like potassium nitrate, white phosphorus, barium chlorate and arsenic, so keep the poison control number handy.

And, keep your family pets happier by leaving them inside away from the noise and fire.

Buying fireworks from local youth groups and service organizations is a great way to support those activities while celebrating Independence Day.

Or, contribute to the public display put on each year by the McCook Optimist Club. Send your check to the Community Fireworks Fund, C/O Mark Graff, Treasurer, P.O. Box 272, McCook, NE 69001.