Fireworks Safety: Enjoy the Show, Avoid the Emergency Department

As summer celebrations kick off, fireworks often take center stage. They’re dazzling and memorable, but the best experiences balance excitement with caution. With a little preparation, attention to local rules and smart habits, you can enjoy the spectacle while keeping your household and neighbors safe.

Why firework safety matters

Every year, thousands of people visit emergency departments because of injuries linked to consumer fireworks. Hands, face and eyes are among the most commonly affected areas, and incidents often happen at backyard displays where simple safety steps are skipped. Firework safety is more than common sense; it’s essential. Fireworks can cause burns, cuts, eye damage and hearing loss when handled incorrectly.

Best practices for safe use

To ensure a safe and successful fireworks display, follow these important preparation and ignition rules:

• Location: Choose a clear, open, flat area away from homes, dry grass, vehicles, trees and overhead wires.
• Check conditions: Verify local regulations and check the weather; wind increases the risk of fire and debris spread.
• Gear up: Wear safety glasses and snug, non-flammable clothing.
• Ignition: Light only one firework at a time using a long-handled lighter or fuse torch.
• Keep clear: Never lean over a firework while lighting it, and keep your body out of its path.
• Duds: Do not try to relight fireworks that fail to ignite ("duds"). Douse them with water and wait before disposal.
• Storage: Store fireworks in a cool, dry place, away from heat and children.
• Disposal: After the show, soak spent fireworks in a bucket of water before disposing of them to prevent smoldering and accidental burns.

What to do if someone is hurt

Minor burn treatment

• Cool the area: For minor burns, cool the area under clean, cool running water for 10 to 20 minutes.
• Remove items: Remove tight items like rings or clothing near the burn, if possible, before swelling begins.
• Cover: Cover the burn with a clean, nonstick dressing.
• Avoid: Avoid applying ice, ointments, creams or butter.

Cuts and bleeding

• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
• Elevate the injured area if possible to help slow the bleeding.

Seek emergency care immediately if:

• The person has deep or blistering burns
• The injury involves the face or eyes
• There is persistent pain, heavy bleeding or signs of infection, such as spreading redness or pus