Fireworks are a staple of many July 4th celebrations, lighting up the night sky with dazzling displays. However, they can also pose serious safety hazards if not handled properly. Each year, thousands of injuries—many involving children—are caused by fireworks.
Dr. Jessica Hodson, emergency medicine physician at Riverwood, advises, “On behalf of our Riverwood emergency team, we urge you to celebrate the July 4th holiday safely while having fun with family and friends. By following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy fireworks without putting yourself or others at risk. Celebrate responsibly—and let the beauty of fireworks light up the sky, not the emergency room.”
Know the law: Before purchasing or using fireworks, check your local laws and regulations. Some areas ban certain types of fireworks or restrict their use to specific dates. Always buy from licensed vendors to ensure you’re getting legal and safe products.
Adult supervision is a must. Fireworks should never be handled by young children. Even sparklers, which seem harmless, can burn at temperatures over 1,200°F. Only responsible adults should light fireworks, and children should always be kept at a safe distance.
Follow instructions carefully. Read and follow all safety instructions on the fireworks packaging. Set them off in an open, clear area away from buildings, dry grass, or other flammable materials. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire.
Use one at a time. Never light multiple fireworks at once. Light one, then move back quickly to a safe distance. Never relight a “dud” firework—wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it in water before disposing of it.
Don’t Improvise. Do not attempt to modify or create your own fireworks. Homemade fireworks are extremely dangerous and are illegal in many places.
Clean up safely. After the display, soak all used fireworks in water before throwing them away. This helps prevent accidental fires or injuries.
Practicing fireworks safety is essential to ensure a fun and accident-free celebration.