4th of July Fireworks Safety Tips: What You Need to Know

Fireworks are a staple of July 4th.

Families from across the country pile up on a blanket, in a bleacher, or even on a boat to watch a fireworks display on the 4th of July.

The tradition of lighting firecrackers on public holidays dates back to 1777 when the First fireworks on July 4th shone through the sky.

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Unfortunately, the beautiful sight can also be dangerous if fireworks are not handled properly.

Many Americans look forward to celebrating that Fourth of July Injuries from fireworks are all too common among family and friends.

Girl looks at the fireworks on July 4th

Fireworks are a staple of July 4th, but can be dangerous if not handled with care. (Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images)

“It is imperative that consumers understand the risks associated with the use of fireworks so that injury and tragedy can be prevented. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch the professional demonstrations,” Alex Hoehn-Saric, chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), said in a press release in a CPSC report.

About 10,200 people attended the Emergency Room for Injuries related to fireworks in 2022, the report said, and 11 deaths were reported.

Girl in 4th of July outfit

Many children enjoy fireworks – and it is important that they are safe when watching such shows. (Jon Cherry/Getty Images)

73 percent of all firework-related injuries in 2022 occurred a few weeks before and after July 4 last year, with most injuries caused by fireworks.

Hands and fingers were the most frequently injured, followed by the head, face and ears.

A nationwide survey by the University of Michigan reminds children that fireworks safety is important, too.

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“For many families, setting off fireworks is a favorite summer tradition, but fireworks are unpredictable. It’s important that parents keep their children away from the locations where these fireworks are being set off,” said Sarah Clark, the co-director of a recently established University of Michigan Health CS Mott Children’s Hospital National Child Health Survey.

The community celebrates the 4th of July

Professional fireworks shows are the safest to watch. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

“Parents need to ensure their children are of the right age and maturity level to understand the dangers involved and the importance of carefully following all safety rules. If the child is not willing to do these things, there is an increased risk of burns, eye injuries, and other accidents.”

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Parents often see sparklers as a safer alternative for children, but there were 600 emergency room-related injuries due to sparklers in 2022, according to the CPSC report.

Sparklers can burn at over 1,000 degrees, which can cause serious injury if mishandled, Clark said.

Fireworks in Los Angeles

There are numerous safety tips to keep in mind when lighting fireworks. (Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images)

“Parents may believe that sparklers are a safe way for younger children to enjoy summer parties. However, these are handheld fireworks that can reach temperatures high enough to burn some metals,” Clark said in the release.

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“Sparklers are only safe if parents enforce all safety measures and children follow them.”

Here are some more firework safety tips from the press release:

  • Only buy legal fireworks that are labeled for consumer use
  • Set off fireworks after fireworks
  • Do not attempt to re-light fireworks
  • Never use fireworks if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of an emergency
  • Never throw firecrackers at anyone
  • Make sure fireworks are legal in your area