Five Firework Safety Tips, to Avoid Being One of the 13,000 Injured

When it comes to fireworks, the BEST plan is to leave the explosives to the professionals. But since some people can’t celebrate the Fourth of July without blowing stuff up, here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you have a safe holiday weekend . . .

1. Don’t let your kids handle fireworks, and obviously don’t do anything illegal. Keep in mind that young kids can hurt themselves even with things like sparklers.

2. Keep a big bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case there’s an issue. And if a firework doesn’t go off, NEVER try to pick it up or re-light it.

3. Light fireworks one at a time, and then move away quickly. Also: Don’t hold them in your hand, unless the instructions specifically say to do so.

4. Never use fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. Don’t get cocky. According to the latest data, “only” 15 people were killed by fireworks in 2025, but around 13,000 people were injured. 35% of those injuries were to the hands or fingers . . . 22% were injuries to the head, face, or ears . . . and 38% of injuries involved burns.

(CPSC)