Washington, DC – Fireworks are a staple of Independence Day celebrations, but they also send thousands of people to emergency rooms across the country every year. As families gather across the Mid-Atlantic—from Virginia to New Jersey—for July 4th celebrations, fire safety officials are reminding residents that many fireworks injuries can be prevented with proper precautions.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Fire Protection Association, thousands of fireworks-related injuries are reported nationwide each year during the weeks surrounding Independence Day. Burns account for the largest share of injuries, while fireworks also cause thousands of fires involving homes, vehicles, vegetation and other property.
The Most Common Fireworks Injuries
- Burns to the hands, fingers and arms
- Eye injuries that can lead to permanent vision loss
- Facial and head injuries from exploding fireworks
- Cuts and puncture wounds from malfunctioning devices
- Hearing damage from close-range explosions
- Leg and foot injuries caused by tipped or misfired fireworks
Children face an elevated risk of injury, but adults also account for many emergency room visits, often while lighting fireworks or attempting to relight devices that fail to ignite.
Fireworks Safety Tips
- Never relight a firework that doesn’t go off.
- Keep spectators a safe distance away.
- Keep children away from consumer fireworks, including sparklers.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
- Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
- Attend professional fireworks displays whenever possible.
The Mid-Atlantic region includes Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C., where millions are expected to attend fireworks shows and holiday gatherings throughout the Independence Day weekend. Officials say taking a few simple precautions can help prevent serious injuries and keep celebrations focused on the holiday—not an emergency room visit.
