Fireworks Safety
Fireworks injure thousands of people every year, mostly around the Fourth of July and New Year’s. Hands, fingers, eyes and faces take most of the damage, and fireworks start many fires. The safest choice is a public display put on by professionals.
- Homeowners
- Families
Know the law first
Fireworks laws vary widely by state, county and city. Some places ban all consumer fireworks, some allow only sparklers and fountains, and burn bans can apply during dry weather. Check local rules before you buy.
If you use consumer fireworks
- Buy only legal consumer fireworks from licensed sellers. Never make or alter fireworks.
- Have a sober adult in charge.
- Wear safety glasses; keep spectators well back.
- Light on a flat, hard surface away from houses, dry grass, trees and cars.
- Light one at a time, then move back quickly. Never lean over a firework.
- Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away.
- Never relight a dud. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it in water.
- Never point or throw fireworks at people or animals.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand while lighting, or put them in containers that can shatter.
Sparklers and kids
Sparklers burn at around 2,000°F, hot enough to melt some metals, and cause many injuries to young children. Don’t give them to small kids. Older children should hold them at arm’s length, stay outside, and drop finished sparklers into a bucket of water.
Pets
Keep pets indoors in a quiet room; many run away during fireworks. Make sure they’re wearing ID tags and are microchipped. See Pets in Emergencies.
Injuries
- Burns: cool with cool running water for 10 to 20 minutes; get medical care for large or deep burns. See Burn First Aid.
- Eye injuries: don’t rub, rinse or apply pressure; protect the eye with a cup or shield and go to the ER. See Eye Injuries.
- Hand injuries with heavy bleeding: apply pressure and call 911. See Bleeding Control.
Night-of checklist
- Local laws and burn bans checked
- Water bucket and hose ready
- Safety glasses for the person lighting
- Spectators back and kids supervised
- Pets inside
Standards & references
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