PHANTOM FIREWORKS PRESS RELEASES

June is Fireworks Safety Month

YOUNGSTOWN, OH – June 1 to July 4 is National Fireworks Safety month, a time when all Americans should be on high alert to insure the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks to celebrate our cherished tradition of freedom and independence,” said Jerry Bostocky, Board member of the National Council on Fireworks Safety and Vice President of Phantom Fireworks.

“Since June 1 to July 4 is the prime time when people use consumer fireworks in the U.S., it only makes sense to promote fireworks safety during this period,” said Bostocky. If people would only use good common sense when handling consumer fireworks, we could lower the fireworks-related injuries even lower than we have already,” preached Bostocky.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety, Inc., a non-profit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., undertakes the mission to educate the public about the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. Its website at www.fireworksafety.com has valuable fireworks safety information and tips on proper use of the products.

Michael Stepan, a long-time licensed professional pyrotechnician in Ohio, maintains that careful preparation is the key to a successful and incident-free use of fireworks by consumers. “Fireworks use must be carefully planned in terms of making sure you follow all safety precautions, have a hard, level surface from which to fire the products that is clear of any debris and is a sufficient and safe distance from the audience and structures,” said Stepan.

“You need to brace the products to keep them upright, and make sure you have a water source or fire extinguisher just in case of incidents,” explained Stepan. “And whatever you do, remember that fireworks burn to function and must be respected. Children should never handle fireworks. If you use the products properly, you will have a safe and fun fireworks experience,” said Stepan.

According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, only 5 states prohibit the use of all consumer fireworks. The APA reports that the overall use of fireworks in the U.S. has increased from 29 million pounds of fireworks in 1976 to over 265 million pounds in 2007, an increase of over 800% in fireworks use over the period.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends you purchase consumer fireworks from licensed, reliable dealers and that you report the use or sale of illegal explosives and homemade or modified fireworks to the fire and/or police departments in your community.

For more information on fireworks safety, visit “Fireworks University” at http://www.fireworks.com/safety/.

Phantom Fireworks is owned by the B.J. Alan Company, headquartered in Youngstown, Ohio.