Firework Safety

Fireworks are a beautiful display of our celebration of the Independence of our nation.  We are afforded the privilege of using some of these judiciously in the state of Arizona.  While they are beautiful, they can be dangerous and should be used with good judgement and care.

The Stats

According to the United States Consumer Public Safety Commission (CPSC, 2021) there has been a 25% increase in firework related injuries between 2006 and 2021, resulting in burns and in some instances, death.  Injuries from both firecrackers and sparklers resulted in roughly 11,500 emergency room visits in 2021. 

The most affected population were young adults between the ages of 20 and 24 years old.  The most often injured body parts were fingers and hands, however, there were also injuries to the head, face, eyes, and ears.  Often, these accidents affected bystanders rather than the active participants. 

The CDC (2000) estimated that fireworks-related injuries cost $100 million, and property damage an estimated $22.7 million.  Did you know that sparklers burn at temperatures between 1000-2000 degrees Fahrenheit (CDC, 2000 & CPSC, 2021)?  You could melt some metals at those temperatures.

With Independence Day around the corner, many people are out buying their fireworks to celebrate, and some may even start their celebration early.  Many injuries occur not just on the holiday itself but roughly within the 30-day period surrounding the holiday.

Celebrating and Staying Safe

• Never allow young children to play with our ignite fireworks including sparklers.
• Keep a water source nearby in case of fire.
• Light fireworks one at a time, keeping your body out of the way and moving to a safe distance away quickly.
• Never point or throw fireworks at anyone or aim them towards vehicles, structures, or other flammable materials.
• After fireworks are done burning, douse the spent fireworks with water, never place them directly into the trash.
• Make sure that the fireworks you purchase and ignite are intended for consumer, not professional use.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Always follow packaging instructions for safe use.
• Never attempt to relight a “dud”.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

In good health,

Nadia

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4924a7.htm#:~:text=Most%20commonly%2C%20injuries%20from%20fireworks%20affect%20the%20hands,cost%20of%20fireworks-related%20injuries%20is%20%24100%20million%20%284%29.

https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks

https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2022/follow-these-steps-for-a-safe-4th-of-july.html