How To Use Fireworks Safely. Estimated 14,700 People Injured In 2024
On the Fourth of July, many people will be playing with things that can explode, namely fireworks. Gee what could possibly go wrong?
Well, when it comes to fireworks, plenty. In fact, in 2024, there were an estimated 14,700 people injured by fireworks, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This included 11 reported fireworks-related deaths and an estimated 1,700 emergency room visits dur to sparklers. Deaths increased by 38% and injuries’ increased by 52% compared to 2023.
Be Careful About Who Handles Fireworks
This isn’t the time to say, “Hey, kids, go and play with those fireworks while us adults have some alone time.” In fact, it’s never a good time to say that. You should never allow younger children to play with fireworks and older children’ to do so unsupervised. That includes sparklers, which may look more innocent but can get up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. In fact, sparklers are what were responsible for 29% of all firework injuries among those under five years of age in 2022, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Instead of sparklers, give kids something else shiny like glow sticks or streamers.
Also, never say, “Hold my beer, while I show you how to set off fireworks.” Do not mix fireworks with alcohol, drugs or anything else that can impair judgment. Using fireworks requires your full attention. So you shouldn’t be texting or scrolling to see what MrBeast is posting on social media while handling fireworks.
Use Only Appropriate Fireworks
Don’t use illegal fireworks. Yes, this may sound like saying, “Don’t do anything illegal,” which may seem obvious. But you’d be surprised at how easy it is to obtain illegal fireworks. Check you local ordinances. What may be legal in some jurisdictions may not be in yours.
Also, stick to fireworks explicitly for consumers and not restricted to professionals. Unless you are a professional fireworks person, you don’t have the training, qualifications or equipment to handle professional fireworks.
Additionally, make sure that you follow all directions and warnings included with the fireworks. If your fireworks don’t have directions or warnings, they may not be legitimate or legal.
Keep Water Close By
Not everything goes as planned in life. And that includes using fireworks. It’s a good idea to keep plenty of water nearby such as a bucket of water or a garden hose, just in case something catches fire or the fireworks continue to burn. Since you may not always be able to tell if fireworks have been completely extinguished after use, it’s a good idea to soak all fireworks, used or unused, before discarding them. The last thing you want to do is light the trash on fire.
Do Not Use Fireworks Indoors
Another thing you should never say is, “I’m going to the bathroom to light some fireworks,” unless you mean that euphemistically. Never use fireworks in an enclosed area. Instead, make sure that the space is wide open, far away from anything that may be flammable.
It’s also not a good idea to light fireworks in a container. That could lead pressure to build up, resulting in an even bigger explosion. Plus, it could break the container and send fragments flying around all over the place.
Make Sure That You And Others Are Properly Protected
Keep yourself and those around you adequately protected when using fireworks. Don’t wear something that can easily catch fire like the wedding dress with the 27-foot train and a 10-foot veil that Mariah Carey wore in her 1993 wedding to Tommy Mottola. Anyone close to fireworks should wear protective eyewear and consider covering any exposed body parts.
Use Proper Procedures When Lighting Fireworks
Once you light any fireworks, quickly move away and keep a safe distance from them. You should never hold lit fireworks in your hand. Don’t point fireworks at anyone or say, “Here, catch this lit firecracker.”
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
● Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
● Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks