How to Stay Safe While Setting Off Fireworks This July 4th

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo: Getty Images

Fireworks are a staple of theFourth of July, right along with hot dogs and wearing red, white and blue. However, those who opt to light a personal display rather than leaving it to the professionals could be asking for trouble.

According to theConsumer Product Safety Commission, there were an estimated 11,500 fireworks-related injuries that required the attention of emergency departments in 2021, with 74 percent of the incidents happening in the month surrounding the holiday. There were also nine fireworks-related deaths reported last year, according to the CPSC.

“CPSC works year round to help prevent deaths and injuries from fireworks,” said Ann Marie Buerkle, CPSC acting chairman, in a statement. “Beyond CPSC’s efforts, we want to make sure everyone takes simple safety steps to celebrate safely with their family and friends. We work with the fireworks industry, monitor incoming fireworks shipments at the ports and enforce federal fireworks safety regulations, so that all Americans have a safe Fourth of July.”

Aside from bodily harm, fireworks can also result in financial hardship. Fireworks are responsible for an average of 19,000 fires per year and in 2019, caused $105 million in property damage, theNational Fire Prevention Associationreports.

Those planning to conduct their own fireworks displays at home should take measured precautions and follow these tips to avoid injuries and other consequences.

Check local laws

Consumer fireworks are not legal in all areas. Before lighting up, it’s important to consult and obey local regulations to ensure you’re not breaking the law.

Be sure to only purchase legal fireworks from a licensed seller and never experiment with homemade devices.

And remember, just because they’re legal doesn’t mean they’re safe.

Take necessary precautions

Those handling fireworks should avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch fire and sport safety glasses to avoid eye injuries.

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Light with care

The National Council on Fireworks Safety says to ignite one firework at a time and then move away quickly.

If a firework doesn’t light, do not try to reignite it or stand over it to investigate why it didn’t take off. Wait 20 minutes, then put the dud in a water bucket.

Keep pets and children away

Pets should also be kept away from firework displaysand kept inside.Veterinarian Dr. Evan Antin explains to PEOPLEthat fireworks can set off your pet’s fight or flight response. Your dog may get a rush of adrenaline from the loud bangs and crackles, resulting in the belief that his life is at risk.

Booze after the bursts

Never let someone who has been drinking handle fireworks.

source: people.com