Firework safety tips from St. Luke’s Emergency Department
Thousands of people are treated in Emergency Departments across the country each year for firework related injuries. More than two out of every three fireworks-related injuries occur between June 20 and July 20.
Who is most at risk for fireworks-related injuries?
More than two out of every three fireworks-related injuries occur between June 20 and July 20.
Children and young adults:
- More than 4 of every 10 people injured were children under 15 years of age
- More than half of all injuries from fireworks occurred among young people under 20 years of age
Males - Males are seen more often with firework-related injuries than females
How can fireworks injuries be prevented?
- The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals
- Use common sense
- Use fireworks outdoors only
- Always have water handy (A hose or bucket)
- Only use fireworks as intended, don't try to alter or combine them
- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water
- Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses
- Do not mix Alcohol and fireworks
- Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type
- Do not use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives, report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community
