National Firework Safety Month

July is National Firework Safety Month. Each year, fireworks cause an estimated 17,000 fires. According to a Consumer Product Safety Commission report, in 2020, there were an estimated 15,600 firework related injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments. The most common injuries were to the head, face, eyes, hands, and fingers. Young adults (age 20-24) had the highest estimated rate of emergency department treated injuries from fireworks. If fireworks are in your Independence Day celebrations, review the following safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Firework Safety Tips

• Only use legal fireworks.
• Double check your local laws regarding fireworks before buying and using them.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose close by in case of an emergency.
  • Douse all burned fireworks with water before disposing of them in the trash can.
• When lighting fireworks, do so one at a time, then move back immediately.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited.
  • Douse them water immediately.
• Always use fireworks outdoors and away from flammable materials. 

Our Best Advice

Plan to go watch a professional firework display with your friends and family instead of attempting put on your own display.