Fireworks Facts
In 2007, approximately 10,000 people were injured across the U.S. by fireworks.
- Of the injuries sustained, 70 percent were to males and 30 percent were to females.
- Injuries to children were a major component of total fireworks-related injuries. Children under 15 accounted for 42 percent of the estimated injuries.
- Sparklers caused the greatest number of injuries, 1,100. Firecrackers were a close second with 1,000, and rockets caused 900 injuries.
- The hands (2,000 injuries), the eyes (1,400 injuries) and the legs (1,200 injuries) were the body parts injured most often.
- More than half of the injuries were burns. Burns were the most common injury to all parts of the body except the eyes and head, where contusions, lacerations and foreign bodies in the eye occurred more frequently.
Fireworks Safety Tips
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."
- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes, and soak it in a bucket of water.
- Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter, and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
- The ignited tip of a sparkler can reach 1200 degrees or greater. Never let children handle sparklers.
- Do not ever use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.
- Never shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers.
- Only light one firework at a time.
Don't Get Burned! Remember these sun-safety tips as well!
- Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and use it even on cloudy days. The SPF should be at least 15 and protect against UVA and UVB rays.
- The first and best line of defense against the sun is covering up. Wear a hat with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses and cotton clothing with a tight weave.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible, and limit sun exposure during peak intensity hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Use extra caution near water, snow and sand since they reflect UV rays.
Sources: cpsc.gov; fireworksafety.com; American Academy of Pediatrics; U.S. Consumer Product Safety CommissionFireworks Facts