Stay Safe This Fourth of July: Fireworks Safety Tips for a Fun and Injury-Free Celebration

Fireworks are a much-loved part of summer festivities, especially around the Fourth of July. The dazzling colors, thunderous booms, and awe-inspiring displays bring communities together in celebration. But with all the excitement comes responsibility. Each year, thousands of people—many of them children—are injured by fireworks. A moment of carelessness or a spark in the wrong direction can lead to burns, fires, or worse. The good news? Most fireworks-related injuries are entirely preventable with a few simple safety precautions.

Know the Risks

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an average of 200 people go to the emergency room each day in the weeks surrounding July 4 due to fireworks injuries.

• Children under 15 years old made up nearly 30% of all fireworks injuries
• The most injured body parts were:
  • Hands and fingers: 35%
  • Head, face, and ears: 22%
  • Eyes: 17%
  • Legs and arms: 18%

Even sparklers, which may seem safe for kids, burn at temperatures of around 2,000°F—hot enough to melt metal.

Leave It to the Pros

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professional public display. These shows are conducted by trained experts who follow strict safety guidelines and offer a much grander (and safer) experience than anything you can do at home. Sit back, relax, and let the professionals light up the sky.

If You Choose to Use Fireworks at Home

If you decide to light your own fireworks, follow these essential safety tips:

• Check local laws: Make sure consumer fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing or using them.
• Buy from a licensed retailer: Use only legal fireworks labeled for consumer use. Avoid homemade or illegal explosives.
• Supervise children closely: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older kids should only use fireworks under close adult supervision.
• Choose a safe location: Use a flat, open area far from buildings, dry grass, or trees. Make sure that everyone nearby knows to avoid the area.
• Secure fireworks properly: Mount fireworks in a bucket of sand, or use bricks or a launching stand to prevent them from tipping. Never place fireworks on uneven ground or loose surfaces.
• Keep a safe distance: Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly. Never lean over fireworks when lighting the fuse.
• Keep water nearby: Have a bucket of water or hose ready in case of fire or malfunction. Soak used fireworks before throwing them away.
• Read instructions closely: Make sure you know how the firework is intended to be used prior to lighting. Follow all manufacturer instructions. Don’t light fireworks in your hand as early or unexpected explosions account for many of the face and hand injuries every year.
• Avoid Loose Clothing: When working around flames and fireworks, wear close-fitted clothing to reduce the risk of fire spreading to you!
• Never relight a “dud”: If a firework fails to go off, don’t try to light it again. Wait 20 minutes before approaching the un-exploded firework, then soak it in water.
• Stay sober: Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Protect Pets and Neighbors

Fireworks aren’t fun for everyone. Loud noises can be distressing for pets, veterans with PTSD, and young children. Be considerate—let neighbors know your plans in advance, and keep pets indoors in a quiet, safe space.

This summer, celebrate smart. A few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing injury, property damage, or emergency room visits. Fireworks are a symbol of freedom and celebration—but safety is what makes the holiday truly enjoyable for everyone.