It’s that season. Pop up sales locations are appearing on corners. We’ll soon be hearing the booms the moment the sun goes down. Fireworks season is upon us. Even though the Fourth of July and all the festivities that go with it are fun for family and friends, it’s also a time of year that sees a number of people injured by fireworks.
A recent report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found a 25% increase in firework-related injuries between 2006 and 2021 in the United States. In 2021, at least nine people died and an estimated 11,500 people were injured in incidents involving fireworks. It’s important that fireworks be used as intended and with caution. That way everyone can enjoy the spectacle safely.
Here are some tips:
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of a fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move quickly away from the fireworks device.
- Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.
- Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
- After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
