With July 4th approaching, fireworks are a standing tradition, whether going to a big fireworks display or lighting some sparklers at home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are more fires reported on July 4th than any other day of the year.
Fireworks are estimated to cause 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and nearly 17,000 other fires resulting in thousands of injuries. In 2017 there were an estimated 8 fatalities and 12,900 injuries attributed to fireworks. The National Safety Council advises the public to stay away from consumer fireworks and enjoy fireworks at a public display instead.
- Sparklers – these burn at 2,000 degrees (hot enough to melt metal) and can quickly ignite clothing causing severe burns for children
- Bottle Rockets – teens have been known to fire these at one another causing chest/head/eye injuries
- Firecrackers – can cause severe burns and other injuries
- Roman Candles – children have lost fingers and suffered severe burns and other injuries (sometimes caused by the device getting jammed)
If you decide to purchase consumer fireworks (and they are legal where you live), be sure to use the following safety tips:
Do not use when impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Do not allow young children to handle fireworks
- Do not use indoors
- Do not ignite devices in a container
- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
- Only light one device at a time
- Closely supervise older children who are using them
- Use eye protection when using fireworks
- Use in an open space, clear of flammable materials/buildings/vehicles/people
- Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
Keep a bucket of water nearby to extinguish fireworks that don’t go off, or in case of a fire