Fireworks Injuries Surge Again — 8 Firework Safety Tips to Protect Yourself and Others

In 2024, nearly 15,000 Americans were injured by fireworks—many of them children. With that number rising every year, it’s clear that awareness alone isn’t enough. Whether you’re lighting a sparkler or watching from the sidelines, it pays to stay informed. Here’s essential firework safety tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe this season.

Firework Injuries and Deaths

While fireworks are undeniably one of the most beautiful man-made inventions, they also have the potential to be one of the most dangerous products on the market for recreational use. Did you know that according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), fireworks start an average of 19,000 fires each year?

firework safety tips

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 14,700 people were treated in the emergency room for firework injuries in 2024, an increase of 44% since 2022. And while the 4th of July is a momentous day for many of these accidents, most injuries tend to occur in the weeks before and after the holiday.

14,700 people were treated in the emergency room for firework injuries in 2024, an increase of 44% since 2022.

Sparklers are Dangerous Too

Surprisingly, sparklers have been one of the top leading firework injury types for years now. Sparklers are a common hand-off to children, but many don’t know that they can reach up to 2,000°, which is hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing and they produce serious burns if dropped on feet. For children under 5 years of age, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the total estimated injuries.

Sparklers are a common hand-off to children, but many don’t know that they can reach up to 2,000°, which is hot enough to melt some metals.

How to Promote a Safer Experience

Whether you’re the firework purchaser, designated lighter, or just a viewer, you should be aware of these 8 firework safety tips to encourage a safer experience for everyone involved.

2025 Firework Safety Tips:

  1. Opt for professional shows over backyard fireworks – maintaining a safe distance of at least 500 feet, leave it to the professionals to handle the entertainment.
  2. Be sure to only use legal consumer fireworks for your area – Only purchase fireworks labeled for consumer use from reputable sellers. Avoid any suspicious-looking products packaged in brown paper or from unlicensed vendors. Check your local laws—what’s legal in one county or state may be banned in another.
  3. Supervision, safety gear, and no impairment – Never let children handle or ignite: even “safe” sparklers can cause serious burns. Assign one sober adult to be the “fireworks guardian” and come prepared with protective eyewear (ANSI-rated) and ear protection (earplugs or earmuffs).
  4. Follow safe lighting procedures – Light one firework at a time, then quickly step back. Never hold a lit device in your hand unless the instructions specify it is safe. Don’t relight duds; soak them in water and dispose of them properly.
  5. Prepare for emergencies – Keep a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby. A basic first-aid kit is essential, especially for burns or eye injuries. Be sure to have water ready nearby in case of a fire, such as a bucket or hose.
  6. Protect eyes and know what to do in case of injury – ANSI-rated protective eyewear is recommended for use. However, if injured: do not rub, rinse, or apply pressure/ointment, and don’t remove debris. Seek emergency care immediately.
  7. Follow all instructions – Read instructions and warnings carefully on all packaging.
  8. Consider safer alternatives – For younger kids, think about laser light shows, glow sticks, LED wands, confetti poppers, or bubble machines for low-risk fun.

Share Your Firework Awareness Story

Do you have a cautious story about a friend or relative that was involved in a firework accident? If so, tell us your firework safety tips and lessons learned below.



from Cardinal Compliance Consultants https://cardinalhs.net/blog/fireworks-injuries-surge-again-8-firework-safety-tips-to-protect-yourself-and-others/
via Cardinal Compliance Consultants

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