Fireworks & Safety

In 2004, 9,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms.

In 2004, five out of six (85%) emergency room fireworks injuries involved fireworks that Federal regulations permit consumers to use.

On the July 4 Independence Day holiday in a typical year, fireworks are the leading cause of reported fire, accounting for more outdoor fires in the U.S. than all other causes of outdoor fires combined.

In 2003, an estimated 2,300 reported structure or vehicle fires were ignited by fireworks.

The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks.
If you plan to use fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area.
Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to properly operate the fire extinguisher.
Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
Stand several feet away from lighted fireworks. If fireworks do not go off, do not stand over them to investigate; douse them with water and carefully dispose of them.
Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If the fireworks are not marked with the contents, directions, and warning labels, do not light them.
Supervise children around fireworks at all times.

(U.S. Fire Administration)

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has estimated that approximately 10,000 Americans have been injured annually in fireworks-related incidents over the past decade, with serious misuse accounting for a large majority of the incidents.

Between 2000 and 2005, CPSC has reports of 36 fireworks-related consumer deaths.