Sparklers

We in the United States are making preparations for a July 4th celebration. This always brings thoughts of family picnics followed by firework displays. In some areas fireworks are not allowed except by professionals who prepare brilliant, colorful displays. While in other places, even small children are allowed to participate in this pyrotechnic event.

If asked to describe “fireworks” most would include loud sounds and brilliant bursts of colors. Both sound and light are forms of energy. A third type of energy that most don’t think about is heat. It’s this last type of energy that I want to start with.

Few would consider giving a child a burning match to play with. But the burning match which burns at a temperature as high as 1500° F (800° C) is about half as hot as a sparkler. So, why are sparklers considered by many as safe for children?

Sparklers don’t explode, and thus are generally purchased for children. Sparklers burn at a high temperature (as hot as 1800 to 3000° F, or 1000 to 1600° C), depending on the chemicals used to make them. This can cause devastating burns and can easily ignite clothing. CAUTION: Boiling water at 212 ° F (100° C) can cause third degree skin burns. Sparklers at 1800 to 3000° F (1000 to 1600° C) can burn through clothes and cause severe burns in seconds. SAFETY SUGGESTIONS: Stick the ends of the sparklers in a container of soil, and then ignite them. Kids will love decorating special Sparkler Containers. For instructions, see CELEBRATION POTS. Place the burnt sparklers into a bucket of water to cool it. Even though it is not glowing, it takes time to cool and can burn. If they are at a safe distance from the sparklers, children can be excited–jumping and clapping and giggling. More Later, Janice