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The spectacular, bright designs and loud booms of fireworks make holidays exciting. But every year, thousands of people end up in emergency rooms because of firework accidents. You can prevent most injuries by taking the right safety steps.
The Hidden Dangers
Fireworks might look like toys, but they’re actually explosives. Even small sparklers burn at 2,000+ degrees — hot enough to melt gold! That’s why about 14,700 people were injured and 11 people died by fireworks in 2024, including about 1,700 just from sparklers.
Children are especially at risk. The parts of the body people are most likely to injure are the hands and fingers (36%); the head, face, and ears (22%); and the eyes (19%).
Eye injuries from fireworks are particularly serious. Fireworks caused 1,200 eye injuries in 2023, including blindness, every year. About a third of these injuries happen in children. The American Academy of Ophthalmology warns that eye injuries from fireworks can be especially severe because of the combination of force, heat and chemicals. Even watching isn’t safe — you can get hurt from debris flying through the air or from standing too close to the action.
The Safest Choice
The best way to enjoy fireworks is to watch professional displays. These shows are run by trained experts who follow strict safety rules. Professional displays also give you the best view without any risk.
If you decide to use fireworks at home, only buy legal ones from licensed sellers. Never try to make your own or use anything that seems damaged.
Smart Safety Steps
When using fireworks at home:
• Always have an adult in charge.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
• Light fireworks on a flat, hard surface away from buildings and dry grass.
• Never hold fireworks in your hands when lighting them.
• Keep a safe distance — stay at least 25 feet away from fireworks.
• Wear safety glasses if you’re lighting fireworks.
• Never look directly over a firework when lighting it.
• Step back quickly after lighting the firework.
• Never try to relight a “dud” — wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water.
• Point fireworks away from people, houses, and dry grass.
• Make sure kids hold sparklers away from their bodies and clothes.
• Drop used sparklers in a bucket of water right away.
Protecting Your Eyes
Your eyes are especially vulnerable to firework injuries. Flying sparks, debris, and even the bright flashes can cause damage. If something gets in your eye, don’t rub it. This can make the injury much worse.
When Things Go Wrong
If someone gets hurt, don’t try to treat serious burns or eye injuries yourself. Call 911 for major injuries. For small burns, run cool water over the area for 10–15 minutes. For eye injuries, cover the eye gently with a clean cloth and get medical help right away.
Never put ice, butter, or home remedies on burns. These can make injuries worse.
Remember, no firework display is worth a trip to the hospital. When in doubt, leave it to the professionals and enjoy the show safely with your family.
