How to safely set off fireworks this Fourth of July

Every Fourth of July, and the days leading up to it, the night sky is lit up by a colorful array of fireworks. 

Families from across the country settle into a comfy spot on a blanket, a bleacher or even a boat to catch a Fourth of July fireworks display. 

The tradition of setting off fireworks on the holiday is one that dates back to 1777, when the first Fourth of July fireworks beamed through the sky. 

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Unfortunately, the beautiful sight can also be dangerous if fireworks are not properly handled. 

As many Americans look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July with family and friends, injuries associated with lighting fireworks have become all too common.

In 2023, there were 800 injuries from firecrackers and 700 from sparklers, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) annual report; and 66% of total injuries that occurred happened in the weeks before and after the Fourth of July.

The CPSC said that 42% of injuries last year were burns, with 35% happening in the hands and fingers. 

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In 2023, there were 9,900 individuals treated in the ER for firework injuries and eight deaths from fireworks, according to the source.

As far as age group is concerned, teens 15 to 19 years old had the highest estimated rate of treated fireworks injuries by the emergency department, according to the CPSC, with the 5 to 9 age group following behind. 

Sparklers are another Fourth of July staple that should be used with great care. The temperature of a sparkler can get up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, CPSC has noted, making it a product that could cause injury if not used with caution. 

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If you have young kids, consider opting for a glow stick instead of a sparkler for safe Fourth of July fun. 

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If you plan on buying fireworks for the holiday, first ensure that it is legal to do so in your state. Each state has different laws for fireworks, mainly in terms of the type you buy. The only state where all consumer fireworks are banned as of 2024 is Massachusetts, according to World Population Review.

Here are fireworks safety tips laid out by the National Safety Council to keep in mind this Fourth of July and any time you are lighting fireworks.