Memphis, TN – Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition across the Mid-South—from Missouri to Mississippi—but they also send thousands of people to emergency rooms across the country every year. As millions gather for parades, festivals, lake outings, backyard cookouts and fireworks displays this Independence Day, fire safety officials are reminding families that many fireworks injuries can be prevented.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Fire Protection Association, thousands of fireworks-related injuries occur nationwide each year during the weeks surrounding Independence Day. Burns account for the largest share of injuries, while fireworks also spark 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 a higher risk of injury, but adults account for many emergency room visits as well, 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.
- Leave large fireworks displays to trained professionals whenever possible.
The Mid-South generally includes Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and western Kentucky, where millions are expected to celebrate Independence Day with public fireworks shows and neighborhood gatherings. Officials say taking a few simple precautions can help prevent serious injuries and keep the holiday focused on celebration rather than a trip to the emergency room.
