Fireworks Safety
Fireworks Safety
A report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission states that in 2021, there were nine deaths and 11,500 emergency room visits resulting from incidents involving consumer fireworks. 74% of those incidents occurred around the Fourth of July. The most common injuries included burns to the hands or fingers. Using proper safety measures can help prevent these types of injuries and make sure your holiday celebrations go smoothly.
It is important to know that fireworks are not safe in the hands of consumers. Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year. The best way to protect their families is not to use fireworks at home. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public displays and leaving the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.
Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. For children under five years of age, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the total estimated injuries.
While the best way to stay safe is to avoid fireworks altogether, here are some tips to be safe and limit the dangers involved.
Things to Remember:
- Verify that the type of fireworks you wish to use are legal to use in your state.
- Refrain from using fireworks while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other substances which might impair your judgment.
- Prevent young children from using fireworks and keep them at a safe distance.
- Only allow adults to light fireworks one at a time, then quickly back away.
- Don’t aim fireworks at people, animals or any other objects.
- Move away from fireworks quickly once they are lit.
- Avoid trying to relight misfired fireworks as this increases the chance of injury.
- Keep water nearby. It is important to soak used fireworks before discarding them. Water will also assist in putting out any fires that may occur.
FAQs
For information about who can purchase fireworks, what kind of fireworks can be purchased by PA residents, restrictions on fireworks use and where they can be purchased, please visit the Pennsylvania State Police website.
National Fire Prevention Administration Video
NFPA's Dan Doofus urges people not to use consumer fireworks because they are too dangerous. Fireworks are responsible for thousands of fires and injuries each year.