3676649 Shutterstock 281822831

Every year, thousands of people (mostly teens and children) are injured while using fireworks. Injuries can include burns, cuts, permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment and even death. Remember: fireworks may be legal, but they are not safe. The best way to enjoy fireworks is to watch displays from a distance and conducted by trained professionals. 

Preventing Firework-Related Injuries

If you choose to use legal fireworks, be sure to follow the following safety tips outlined by the National Safety Council:

  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks
  • Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
  • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
  • Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
  • Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
  • Never light them indoors
  • Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person
  • Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
  • Never ignite devices in a container
  • Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
  • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
  • Never use illegal fireworks

Please be aware of the following requirements for igniting fireworks:

  • They cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner
  • They cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure

Recent Articles