#United States
#Chevy Chase
#American Fireworks Standards Laboratory
#safety report
#fireworks injuries
AFSL Publishes First Annual Fireworks Injury Report, Promoting Consumer Safety Enhancements
The American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL), an independent organization dedicated to fireworks safety, has just unveiled its inaugural Annual Fireworks Injury Report for 2024. This new report comes in light of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) ceasing its own annual fireworks injury data compilation in 2023. AFSL aims to fill this void and ensure that the public remains informed about the risks associated with fireworks. Founded in 1989, AFSL has long been the industry standard for rigorous testing, with the organization testing around 70% of all consumer fireworks entering the U.S. market. With this report, AFSL reiterates its commitment to enhancing consumer safety through diligent oversight and responsible practices.
The numbers from their latest report are startling. During 2024, an estimated 14,741 fireworks-related injuries were reported, indicating a continued concern regarding the use of fireworks during celebrations. Of these injuries, a staggering 76% were minor and treated at the scene, while 22% required hospitalization. Tragically, 19 fatalities were noted, with four of those instances involving individuals launching fireworks from unsafe positions—often from their own body—a clearly dangerous practice that the report firmly discourages.
A demographic breakdown of the injuries shows that adults aged 30 and over accounted for 42% of all reported injuries, highlighting a risk across age groups. While sparklers and smaller fireworks consistently contribute to minor injuries, there has been a notable increase in such incidents among older users last year, suggesting a growing need for safety education among all age groups using fireworks.
The report emphasizes that misuse, particularly of reloadable aerial shells, remains a leading cause of severe injuries. Consumers are urged to take safety precautions seriously by avoiding the launch of any fireworks from their bodies, not throwing firecrackers, and ensuring that they do not consume alcohol before handling fireworks. Furthermore, purchasing from licensed sellers is critical, as there is an alarming rise in unregulated fireworks resulting from illicit sales.
AFSL Executive Director Jay Howell expressed concerns over the increasing presence of untested and illegal fireworks products on the market, stating, "These devices not only fail to meet federal safety standards but can also lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities." Howell's words reinforce the goal of the AFSL to maintain safety standards through comprehensive testing and public education.
Through its robust testing program, AFSL has evaluated more than 83 million cases of fireworks since 2015, rejecting over 4.4 million cases due to safety concerns. This commitment to monitoring and ensuring compliance with federal regulations continuously seeks to offer a level of safety that the public can trust. As new challenges emerge, AFSL has been proactive in expanding its outreach efforts to distribute key safety information to prevent accidents.
Among the guidelines promoted by AFSL are the following:
1. Always purchase fireworks from licensed and reputable sellers.
2. Familiarize yourself with all local and state regulations regarding fireworks use.
3. Never use fireworks while impaired by substances such as alcohol.
4. Do not attempt to relight defective fireworks or modify devices.
5. Avoid launching any fireworks from your body, as this significantly heightens the risk of injury.
The annual injury report is positioned as an invaluable resource, serving as a reference for regulators, public safety officials, and consumers alike. By sharing detailed insights derived from thorough data analysis, AFSL hopes to cultivate safer celebrations and help mitigate the dangers associated with fireworks.
In conclusion, while fireworks can be a joyous addition to festivities, the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and purchasing compliant products cannot be understated. As the AFSL continues its mission to elevate consumer safety standards through rigorous testing and outreach, the hope is to see a decline in fireworks-related injuries and increase awareness surrounding this festive yet hazardous tradition.
The numbers from their latest report are startling. During 2024, an estimated 14,741 fireworks-related injuries were reported, indicating a continued concern regarding the use of fireworks during celebrations. Of these injuries, a staggering 76% were minor and treated at the scene, while 22% required hospitalization. Tragically, 19 fatalities were noted, with four of those instances involving individuals launching fireworks from unsafe positions—often from their own body—a clearly dangerous practice that the report firmly discourages.
A demographic breakdown of the injuries shows that adults aged 30 and over accounted for 42% of all reported injuries, highlighting a risk across age groups. While sparklers and smaller fireworks consistently contribute to minor injuries, there has been a notable increase in such incidents among older users last year, suggesting a growing need for safety education among all age groups using fireworks.
The report emphasizes that misuse, particularly of reloadable aerial shells, remains a leading cause of severe injuries. Consumers are urged to take safety precautions seriously by avoiding the launch of any fireworks from their bodies, not throwing firecrackers, and ensuring that they do not consume alcohol before handling fireworks. Furthermore, purchasing from licensed sellers is critical, as there is an alarming rise in unregulated fireworks resulting from illicit sales.
AFSL Executive Director Jay Howell expressed concerns over the increasing presence of untested and illegal fireworks products on the market, stating, "These devices not only fail to meet federal safety standards but can also lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities." Howell's words reinforce the goal of the AFSL to maintain safety standards through comprehensive testing and public education.
Through its robust testing program, AFSL has evaluated more than 83 million cases of fireworks since 2015, rejecting over 4.4 million cases due to safety concerns. This commitment to monitoring and ensuring compliance with federal regulations continuously seeks to offer a level of safety that the public can trust. As new challenges emerge, AFSL has been proactive in expanding its outreach efforts to distribute key safety information to prevent accidents.
Among the guidelines promoted by AFSL are the following:
1. Always purchase fireworks from licensed and reputable sellers.
2. Familiarize yourself with all local and state regulations regarding fireworks use.
3. Never use fireworks while impaired by substances such as alcohol.
4. Do not attempt to relight defective fireworks or modify devices.
5. Avoid launching any fireworks from your body, as this significantly heightens the risk of injury.
The annual injury report is positioned as an invaluable resource, serving as a reference for regulators, public safety officials, and consumers alike. By sharing detailed insights derived from thorough data analysis, AFSL hopes to cultivate safer celebrations and help mitigate the dangers associated with fireworks.
In conclusion, while fireworks can be a joyous addition to festivities, the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and purchasing compliant products cannot be understated. As the AFSL continues its mission to elevate consumer safety standards through rigorous testing and outreach, the hope is to see a decline in fireworks-related injuries and increase awareness surrounding this festive yet hazardous tradition.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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