Fireworks Injury Prevention
They can be exciting, festive and fun–but fireworks can also be dangerous. Leaving fireworks displays to trained professionals can prevent injuries.
In 2007, eleven people in the United States died and an estimated 9,800 were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries. These injuries were most common on and around holiday celebrations, such as the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve.
What You Can Do
Remember—the safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals.
What You Should Know
- About 2 out of every 3 fireworks-related injuries in 2007 happened between June 22 and July 22. During this time period, an estimated 6,300 people were treated in U.S. emergency departments for injuries related to fireworks.
- More than 4 of every 10 people injured by fireworks are children under 15 years of age.
- Injuries from fireworks most often affect the hands, eyes, head, face, and ears.
- People taking part in fireworks-related activities are more frequently and severely injured than bystanders.
- Fireworks can cause blindness, third degree burns, and permanent scarring. They can also cause life-threatening fires.
More Information
Web-based Resources
- Fireworks Safety Fact Sheet
- Protect the Ones You Love: Burns
- US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Fireworks Safety Web Site
Podcasts
Health-e-Card
Current Features
Need info on a
different topic? See
