Fireworks Safety: More Than 5,000 People Treated in E.R. Last Fourth of July Holiday

By Patch Field Editor Renee Schiavone

Celebrating the Fourth of July just wouldn't be the same without fireworks. But officials warn-- leave those dazzling lights displays to the experts.

That's because an estimated 60 percent of all fireworks injuries in the United State happen around July 4 every year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.  

"Fireworks can have a life-altering impact on consumers, including severe eye injuries, loss of limbs, and even death," the CSPC said in a recent report.

Last year alone, the agency received reports of six people killed by either professional-grade, homemade or banned firework devices.  

An additional 8,700 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms nationwide for fireworks-related injuries. More than 5,000 of those happened between June 22 and July 22 alone, the CSPC said. 

"More than half of these reported injuries involved burns to the hands, head and face," the agency said. "About 1,000 reported injuries involved sparklers and bottle rockets, fireworks that are frequently and incorrectly considered safe for young children."

Those injuries were mostly the result of both malfunctioning fireworks and "improper use." Though most people were expected to fully recover from their injuries, several victims' injuries were expected to be long term, according to the CSPC.

"Malfunctioning fireworks often resulted in unexpected flight paths and dangerous debris," they said. "Improper use included igniting fireworks too close to someone, lighting fireworks in one’s hand and playing with lit or used fireworks."

As for the most dangerous types of fireworks Americans use, about 23 percent of all injuries came from firecrackers, while 12 percent came from sparklers. 

 “These figures represent more than numbers; they represent the lives of real people who have been affected well beyond the Fourth of July,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “The federal government is working hard to keep the public safe by monitoring the ports, the marketplace, and the transportation of fireworks. Now, we need consumers to do their part and celebrate safely.”

Murrieta already held its annual fireworks show Saturday, but if you're looking to catch a professional grade lights show nearby, be sure to check out this listing of local fireworks celebrations here.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is also hosting a fireworks show at dusk on Saturday at its Pow Wow grounds near the casino.

Consumers who decide to purchase legal fireworks are urged to take these safety steps.

• Make sure the fireworks you want to buy are legal in your area before buying or using them.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Parents may not realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees ─ hot enough to melt some metals.
• Always have an adult closely supervise fireworks activities if older children are allowed to handle devices.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and could pose a danger to consumers.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device to prevent a trash fire.
• ATF encourages the public to report the manufacture or sale of illegal fireworks to your local law enforcement agencies or to the ATF hotline at 1-888-ATF-BOMB (1-888-283-2662).