You and your loved ones can have fun and stay safe if you are careful about using or watching fireworks. Barbecues, parades, and fireworks displays are all part of the celebration, but along with all the festivities comes plenty of visits to emergency rooms!
On average, eight people die and about 11,400 are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. And while the majority of these incidents were due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade, or other illegal fireworks or explosives, 40% were from legal, less powerful devices.
Fireworks also are responsible for thousands of home fires each year. The National Fire Protection Association says fireworks caused about 1,200 structure fires each year (setting off fireworks too close to structures and the hot material falls onto houses).
The National Safety Council advises everyone to stay away from all consumer fireworks and to only enjoy fireworks at a public display conducted by seasoned professionals.
So while you are enjoying fun in the sun, time with family and friends, parades, and more – think about safety!
