Fireworks Safety
If you choose to use fireworks
Each year, an average of 18,500 fires are started from fireworks including, structure and vehicle fires as well as brush and other fires. Before deciding to use fireworks, check with your local government on restrictions. Many localities have laws prohibiting use of fireworks without a license. If you choose to use legal fireworks follow these steps for your safety:
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks
- Older children should use them only under close supervision
- Never use fireworks while impaired
- Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
- Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
- Never light fireworks indoors
- Only use them away from people, houses and flammable materials
- 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 didn’t go off or in cases of fire
- Never use illegal fireworks
Sparklers
Sparklers are often thought of as a safe and entertaining firework for children. Sparklers can burn at nearly 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping them on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for firework injuries. For children under 5 years, sparklers account for nearly half of estimated injuries.
Consider using a safer alternative.
- Published: June 25, 2021
- Page reviewed/updated: August 16, 2023
