Fireworks Safety Tips

Fourth of July is around the corner. That means Americans are getting ready to celebrate with barbecues, parades, and, of course, fireworks.

Fireworks are a fun, dazzling way to celebrate our nation’s Independence Day. But they can be dangerous, potentially causing burns, eye injuries, and other bodily harm if proper safety measures aren’t taken. Proof: An estimated 15,600 went to emergency rooms for firework injuries in 2020, a 56 percent increase from fireworks-sustained injuries in 2019.

In addition, about 1,300 house fires are caused by fireworks every year. These house fires cost millions of dollars in property damage.

The best way to remain safe on the Fourth of July is to attend a public fireworks show put on by trained pyrotechnicians. However, if you’re planning on setting off fireworks yourself or going to a friend’s house for fireworks, make sure you take the following safety precautions to prevent bodily harm and property damage.

Make sure at-home fireworks are legal in your area. See what the consumer firework laws are in your state using the American Pyrotechnics Association's state law directory. (Note: Massachusetts completely bans consumer fireworks.)

Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous—they can light clothing and hair on fire and heat up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt glass.

Don’t use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Fireworks and drugs/alcohol are a bad combination. At least 18 people died from fireworks-related incidents in 2020; eight of the victims (44 percent) were under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Only buy fireworks from reputable retailers. Under no circumstances should you experiment with homemade fireworks. Also, be aware that fireworks packaged in a brown paper bag are typically made for professional firework displays—not for consumer use.

Review warning labels. Carefully read and follow the instructions on firework packaging. Wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks. Safety goggles will protect your eyes from flying sparks and debris. It’s also a good idea to wear earplugs—a firework can hit 150 decibels at close range, which is enough to damage hearing.

Never light fireworks indoors. Fireworks are exclusively for outdoor use.

Light fireworks one at a time. And never attempt to re-light fireworks that have not fully ignited.

Set off fireworks in a safe area. Use fireworks away from people, houses, dry leaves, grass, and flammable materials. Also, keep your family and spectators at a safe distance.

Be prepared to put out a fire. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.

Don’t lean over a firework while lighting it. And move to a safe distance (at least 35 feet away ) after lighting the fuse.

Safely discard used fireworks. Soak used fireworks in water for several hours before disposing them to prevent a trash fire.

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