(haipo) – Independence Day celebrations across the country are accompanied every year by colors, joy and, unfortunately, injuries. Among the many customs that have become a widespread tradition is the use of snow sprays, which seems innocent and even fun. But behind the festive white layer of foam lies a real danger.
Independence Day foam spray is highly flammable
Approximately 350 injuries per year
According to data from the Batrem child safety organization, in the past five years, 1,731 children and teenagers have been taken to emergency rooms in Israel following injuries that occurred on the eve or on Independence Day, an average of about 350 cases per year. Some of the injuries are caused directly by the use of holiday products, primarily snow sprays: foam sprays that can cause chemical burns, skin and eye irritation, and sometimes even more serious injuries.
Despite the existing restrictions in the law on the production, import and sale of dangerous toys, these toys, including snow sprays, continue to find their way onto the markets. Sometimes these are smuggled and substandard products, but even sprays that appear to meet the standard can be dangerous if not used in accordance with safety guidelines. The law in Israel stipulates a penalty of one year in prison or a fine of 26,000 NIS for violators, but enforcement on the ground is sometimes only partial.
Despite the fact that snow sprays are currently defined as toys that are permitted for marketing, there is broad agreement between the National Council for Home and Recreational Safety of the Ministry of Health and the Commissioner for Standards at the Ministry of Economy on the need for a blanket ban on the import, production, and marketing of snow sprays. In practice, some local authorities have already taken steps: for example, the Ness Ziona Municipality previously conditioned the hawking license on Independence Day on a ban on selling snow sprays.
The "Hai Pa" editorial team contacted the Haifa Municipality and the Israel Police with a request to find out how they intend to act on the issue of enforcement surrounding the sale and use of snow sprays, but as of the time of writing, no response has been received.
Pre-school organization guidelines for child safety:
- Books of foam, snow and more: These toys may seem innocent, but they can cause burns, eye irritation, and skin damage. Snow spray is prohibited for sale to children under 14. For older teenagers, the recommendation is to avoid unnecessary use. In any case, be careful to purchase products that meet the standard. Before buying, check that the product contains clear instructions for use, including the importer's name, manufacturer's name, address, method of use, and age restrictions.
- Accessories and decorations: Many toys and holiday decorations contain small parts that can break and button batteries. Make sure that any product you use is in good condition and that the battery is securely fastened to the compartment and cannot fall out. If there appears to be a problem with the product, stop using it. If you suspect that a child has swallowed a broken part or battery, seek medical attention immediately.
- Barbecues: Children often fall or get burned from hot surfaces, burning coals, or boiling cooking equipment. Barbecues should only be lit in approved locations away from flammable materials. Keep children away from the barbecue area when cooking, and make sure the coals are completely extinguished after use.
- Fireworks and explosives: Despite enforcement, this phenomenon still exists, especially among teenagers. Avoid using explosives, fireworks, and other dangerous toys, which can cause burns, serious injuries, and irreversible damage. One explosion in the wrong hand can cause amputation of fingers, eye injuries, burns to the hands, and explosions in the pocket of your pants. Keep an eye on your child, explain to them the dangers of using explosives, and do not allow them into the house.
- Alcohol: Teenagers tend to drink alcohol on the holiday. Remember that drinking alcohol is prohibited for minors under the age of 18. The dangers of high alcohol consumption, including alcohol poisoning, should be emphasized to teenagers. Alcohol poisoning can cause loss of control, unconsciousness, and even death.
Orly Silvinger, CEO of the Betrem Organization: "Independence Day is our national holiday in Israel, it is the birthday of the state. I appeal to you, parents, to keep your children safe even during the holiday. Unfortunately, every year, many children are admitted to hospital emergency rooms who have been injured by holiday activities. Even toys and accessories that seem innocent can cause injury. Don't tell me it won't happen - check the products you purchase for your children during the Independence Day celebrations, avoid using snow or foam sprays, prevent playing with sparklers or fireworks of any kind, and set clear limits regarding alcohol consumption."
Warnings and instructions from Magen David Adom for Independence Day
In preparation for Independence Day celebrations, Magen David Adom is publishing the complete guide to maintaining safety and preventing unnecessary disasters:
- Preliminary conversationsIt is recommended to have a conversation with children about the dangers of improper use of sprays and toys.
- Sprays: Do not point the nozzle at eyes, mouth or face. Eye contact? Rinse with running water.
- Responsible use: Sprays only for ages 14 and up. Parents – watch out!
- Choosing toys: Be sure to purchase only products with an Israeli standard label and make sure there are instructions for use in Hebrew.
- Inflammation: Aerosols are highly flammable! Keep away from fire and do not throw containers into fire.
- Caution with fireworks: Do not get near eyes. If the wax gets into your eyes, rinse with water and contact the MDA.
- Hearing protection: Avoid using noisy toys near your ears.
- density: Avoid entering halls and events that exceed the permitted occupancy for fear of dangerous crowding.
Drinking alcohol:
- Drinking wisely: Drink in moderation, remember – driving and alcohol do not go together!
- Health hazards: Alcohol can cause confusion, fatigue, injuries, and even death.
- Party safety: Do not leave cups and bottles unattended for fear of introducing hazardous substances.
- parents: Please note that children under the age of 18 do not consume alcohol.
Safety at barbecues and picnics:
- Barbecues: Place the fire away from vegetation, extinguish the embers well when finished.
- Childcare: Keep away from fire, combustible materials and burning coals.
- Caution in nature: Avoid rolling stones and beware of snakebites and insect bites.
- First aid: Have a first aid kit available.
Swimming in the sea, pools and water sources:
- Safe bathing: Only on beaches and pools with active lifeguard services.
- Close supervision: Children are not left alone for a single moment near water.
- Flotation equipment: Buoys and wheels are not a substitute for supervision.
- Caution from streams: Have you encountered a rip current? Don't swim against it – flow with it and swim back later.
- dangerous games: Do not jump headfirst into shallow water and do not run around a pool.
Private pools:
- Fencing and closing: The pool should be fenced when there is no adult around.
- Maximum attention: Do not break eye contact with children near water.
Car safety:
- Full belt: The children are properly buckled in appropriate seats.
- Preventing forgetting: Leave an important object next to the child.
- Preventing overheating: Never leave children in a closed vehicle.
- Careful driving: Drive slowly and be especially careful in areas with children.
On trips:
- Sun protection: Wear appropriate clothing, make sure to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen.
- Beware of snakes: Do not turn over rocks. In the event of a bite, immediately call MDA 101 and avoid moving the victim.
- Maintaining the group of travelers: Be sure to make sure everyone is together, especially on unfamiliar routes.
Correction of error and deception:
Although alcohol consumption is not recommended at any age, the text "Drinking alcohol is prohibited for minors under the age of 18" is simply not true.
The only prohibition is on sales to minors under the age of 18.