Alcohol and Fireworks Don't Mix, Warns National Council on Fireworks Safety

New Year's Eve is a wonderful time to celebrate the start of a new year. And fireworks are a wonderful way of celebrating! However, all too often, New Years Eve festivities involve excess alcohol. Just like driving and drinking do not mix, shooting consumer fireworks and drinking absolutely do not mix.

If you are at a party for New Year's Eve where consumer fireworks are being shot, make sure that there is a designated shooter who has not been drinking any alcohol. Even a small quantity of alcohol (one beer, a glass of wine) can impair one's judgment and ability to properly set up and use consumer fireworks safely.

Nancy Blogin, President of the National Council on Fireworks Safety notes: "Each New Year's Eve, consumers are injured because their judgment has been impaired by beer, wine, or other alcoholic drink. The lesson is simple: alcohol and fireworks don't mix."

In addition, the National Council reminds shooters of consumer fireworks of these other important safety tips:

* Only use fireworks outdoors.
* Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
* Never give fireworks to young children.
* Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
* Always have a bucket of water, or water hose, nearby.And remember, ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS DON'T MIX!

The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose sole mission is to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. For a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips and the Council's safety videos, please visit http://www.FireworksSafety.org.