Common Firework Injuries and How to Avoid Them

Every year, fireworks light up the skies and bring excitement to celebrations like the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve. But behind the sparkle is a serious risk: thousands of

firework-related injuries occur annually in the U.S., many of which are preventable with a few simple precautions.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common firework injuries—and share expert tips on how to avoid them.

🔥 The Most Common Firework Injuries

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 14,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries in 2024 alone. These are the most frequent types:

1. Hand and Finger Injuries

• Cause: Holding fireworks too long, malfunctioning explosives, or attempting to relight a dud.

• Injuries: Burns, lacerations, fractures, even amputations.

2. Eye Injuries

• Cause: Shrapnel, sparks, or debris from close-range fireworks.

• Injuries: Corneal abrasions, burns, and in some cases, permanent vision loss.

3. Face and Head Injuries

• Cause: Improper handling or aiming of fireworks, especially bottle rockets or Roman candles.

• Injuries: Burns, contusions, and trauma from blasts or flying fragments.

4. Hearing Damage

• Cause: Loud explosions in close proximity.

• Injuries: Temporary or permanent hearing loss, especially in children or those without ear protection.

5. Burns

• Cause: Direct contact with lit fireworks or hot surfaces after ignition.

• Injuries: First- to third-degree burns on the hands, arms, legs, or face.

✅ How to Avoid Firework Injuries

Here are some simple but effective ways to stay safe during firework festivities:

🎇 1. Keep a Safe Distance

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and set off fireworks at least 25–50 feet away from people, pets, homes, and flammable materials.

🧤 2. Never Hold Fireworks in Your Hands

Only place fireworks on a flat, hard surface before lighting—and never try to hold or throw them.

🚫 3. Don’t Relight Duds

If a firework doesn’t ignite properly, wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water before safely disposing of it.

👓 4. Wear Eye Protection

Safety goggles can protect your eyes from flying debris and sparks—especially important for anyone lighting fireworks.

🧯 5. Keep Water and a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Have a bucket of water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher on hand in case of a fire or mishap.

👶 6. Supervise Children Closely

Children should never handle fireworks. Even sparklers—often seen as safe—can reach temperatures of up to 2,000°F.

🚨 Know When to Leave It to the Pros

If you’re unsure or don’t feel confident handling fireworks yourself, the best option is to attend a professional display in your community. These shows are conducted by trained experts and offer all the thrill—with none of the risk.

🎆 Celebrate Safely and Smartly

Fireworks are meant to bring joy, not tragedy. By understanding the most common injuries and taking the right safety measures, you can ensure that your celebration ends with cheers and memories—not ER visits.

Stay safe, have fun, and protect what matters most.