The New Straits Times, January 9, 2000
By Prof Dzulkifli Abdul Razak
ENTER the "Millennium Dragon" and there are bound to be firecrackers sounding off all over! It seems only befitting that such an auspicious occasion be accompanied by a "big bang".
It is, after all, still the dawn of the new millennium and fireworks form a unique part of many cultures. So it is to be expected that many are jumping at the opportunity to make a quick buck.
Last week, three men were caught red-handed with boxes of fireworks to be sold during the Chinese New Year. Apparently a shophouse in Tampin had been turned into a warehouse for about 100 boxes of fireworks, worth about RM200,000. The consignment was reportedly smuggled from China through a neighbouring country.
The case demonstrated the extent the unscrupulous would go to exploit the situation.
Not only was there no permit to import the items, they contravened the Explosives Act and could be charged in court.
There was also blatant disregard for health and safety. Smuggling such items in large quantities involves enormous risks.
And putting them in a shoplot, which is not designed for this purpose, is irresponsible. If the shoplot is located in a highly-populated area, it stretches the risk even further.
The Bright Sparkler incident caused many to suffer because health and safety measures were compromised. This single incident should be a constant reminder to all of us, especially in times of festivities.
Unfortunately our memory is short. Going by the run-up to the Year of the Dragon, it is apparent that there are still those who would court tragedy by using firecrackers. Among them are children who are lured by the prospect of lighting up the sky.
While enforcement officers are trying to keep the situation under control, all Malaysians are duty-bound to ensure the festive season is not marred by incidents which can be prevented.
This is best done by increasing our awareness about the risks of fireworks, and by making our health and safety, and that of our families, a priority.
We must know that using fireworks is illegal. Moreover, there are a number of health and safety issues to be considered.
Any of the following chemicals can be part of a firework: potassium nitrate, barium chlorate, arsenic, strontium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, copper oxide, sodium bicarbonate, carbon, sulphur, perchlorate and aluminium powder.
All are potential health hazards.
Moreover, most pyrotechnics produce smoke and fumes, which when inhaled cumulatively can be unhealthy because of the various chemicals.
The flashes and sounds can be upsetting and dangerous. They can actually hurt the eyes and ears. Thus, when fireworks, especially sparklers, are used, ensure the following are closely adhered to.
Children should not be allowed to play with fireworks. Sparklers should only be used under the strict supervision of adults. Do not give sparklers to a child under five or if he/she is not able to handle one.
Be properly attired. Generally, loose clothing can easily catch fire, and should not be worn near any fire or fireworks. Dangly pieces such as scarves can be dangerous as well.
Never carry fireworks with you in person, for example, in your pocket or a pouch attached to your body.
Before using the fireworks, pay heed to the warnings and instructions. Do not use fireworks which do not carry such information.
Make sure the surroundings are secure and safe, away from people and flammable chemicals.
Do not underestimate potential hazards such as dry leaves or dumping grounds that could easily support combustion. Similarly in areas where there are wooden housing structures as well as flammable roofs.
Avoid throwing or "shooting" sparklers and fireworks. Go to open and safer compounds for this purpose.
Light the tip of each firework at arm's length, using a steady flame. Light them on non-flammable and unbreakable surfaces. Stand well back immediately.
If one does not "fire" off, don't go back to it. It could still go off. Do not leave it unattended either. Observe from a distance. Douse it with water before picking it up.
Do not attempt to reignite since it could still be "alive" and go off. Do not attempt to light any suspected defective items. Put all spent fireworks in secure non-flammable disposal containers.
The container may be filled with some water to extinguish remaining flames. Be careful of any toxic remnant or hot metal parts when picking them up for disposal. Wash your hands thoroughly after that.
For those that do not ignite, ensure they are safe for disposal, for example, by pouring lots of water over them. Do not step on them to smother the flames.
Know the emergency facilities closest to you. Also the number of the Fire and Rescue Department.
Keep a bucket of water close by in case of fire. In case of fire and there is no water, observe the three don'ts.
Do not run; this can cause the fire to spread faster. Do not just stand by; drop to the ground and try to smother the flame under your weight. Do not just lay still, roll over to and fro to put out the flames.
When not in use, store the fireworks in a closed container, in a cool and dry place. Keep them out of reach of children and animals, preferably locked away in a safe and accessible place.
Never experiment, modify, or attempt to make your own fireworks. Home-made fireworks are often more hazardous.
Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Drinking alcohol presents an added danger when using fireworks. Stay away from those places.
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
