Sparklers are not child's play

Did you know that the average primary flame blowtorch burns at around 2,000 F? USFS National Technology and Development says wildland fires typically burn between 1,600 and 2,000 F. Aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, and cast iron also can reach melting points at or slightly below 2,000 F.

Its likely safe to say that parents would never let their children handle a blowtorch, wander into a forest fire nor touch molten metals, yet many seemingly have no concerns about children playing with sparklers during July 4 celebrations. The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia says people often treat sparklers much too casually, even though they can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 F. Children are allowed to hold and wave these red-hot metal rods like toys. Sparkler sticks pose a serious burn risk, and the sparks can cause additional burns and eye injuries, warns the CHOP. Young children who would not be trusted with other hot materials should not hold sparklers, warn health experts. Older children should be carefully supervised around sparklers and other fireworks.

Those who want to avoid any possible injuries on July 4 and during other summer celebrations would be wise to avoid sparklers in favor of safer forms of entertainment. Here are some ideas.

Glow sticks light up in the dark and can be worn or waved around safely.

Fill water balloons with a mixture of glitter and water. When the balloons pop, it is a festive display.

Send children around with canned string products that they can spray on one another. If making a mess isn't an issue, shaving cream fights also can be fun diversions for children.

Adults can lead by example and leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. Take a ride over to the seaside or where a town is hosting a fireworks display and enjoy the sights from a distance.

Purchase battery-powered blinking lights, such as those sold at circuses or concerts. Kids can spend hours running around with them in hand. Less expensive flashlights purchased at a dollar store can create the same effect.

Let children play with confetti cannons.

Snappers or Poppers could be an option if they are sold nearby. These are small noisemakers that explode and pop when they are thrown at a hard ground surface.

Sparklers may be festive and beautiful to behold, but they are not designed to be handled by children. Alternatives to sparklers are equally fun and much safer.