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Fireworks Safety Comes First: CPSC's Guidelines for a Safe July 4th

As the vibrant and festive July 4th holiday draws closer, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges everyone to put safety at the forefront of their plans. Fireworks are synonymous with Independence Day celebrations; however, it's essential to acknowledge the risks associated with handling these explosive devices.

A Surging Wave of Injuries

In 2024, fireworks-related incidents were alarmingly prevalent, with CPSC reporting a total of 11 fatalities and approximately 14,700 injuries caused by fireworks, marking a staggering increase of about 38% in deaths and 52% in injuries compared to the previous year. Many of these incidents resulted from inappropriate handling, device malfunctions, and misuse.

Notably, sparklers, often perceived as harmless, were involved in nearly 1,700 emergency room visits, emphasizing the importance of proper supervision and awareness. Adults aged 25 to 44 represented the largest demographic of reported injuries (32%), followed closely by the 15 to 24 age group (24%). The most affected body parts included hands and fingers (36%) and the head, face, and ears (22%). Furthermore, burns accounted for a concerning 37% of all emergency room visits related to firework activities.

The Human Element Behind the Statistics

"Behind these numbers are real people, real families — and often, preventable incidents," stated Peter Feldman, the Acting Chairman of the CPSC. His emphasis on celebrating responsibly underscores the critical need for safety during this celebratory time. Incidents involving fireworks are not limited to the Fourth of July but can occur during any festive occasion.

Essential Fireworks Safety Tips from CPSC

To ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July, the CPSC has compiled a list of crucial safety tips:

• - Supervise children closely: Children should never be allowed to handle or ignite fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at temperatures around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—a temperature high enough to melt certain metals.
• - Be prepared for emergencies: Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of unforeseen incidents, whether due to misfires or fires.
• - Know the law: Be sure that fireworks are legal in your vicinity, and always purchase fireworks labeled for consumer use, rather than those intended for professional displays.
• - Avoid substances: Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as they can severely impair judgment and coordination.
• - Light with caution: Fireworks should be lit one at a time, with everyone moving back promptly after lighting.
• - Handling misfires: Never attempt to relight or try to retrieve fireworks that haven't ignited fully, as they may still pose a risk.
• - Follow instructions: Always adhere to the guidelines and warnings provided on firework packaging, and be very cautious if the instructions indicate that the fireworks can be held in hand.

For more comprehensive safety guidance, individuals are encouraged to visit CPSC.gov and explore additional fireworks safety resources available on their site. Visual demonstrations of safe handling practices are also available to raise awareness further.

The Role of CPSC

The CPSC has a longstanding mandate to safeguard the public from unreasonable risks associated with consumer products, including fireworks. Collectively, incidents related to consumer products impose more than $1 trillion in costs related to injuries, fatalities, and property damage annually. The CPSC has played a pivotal role in decreasing injuries related to consumer products over the past 50 years.

As celebrations approach, let's commit to making this Independence Day enjoyable and safe for everyone through responsible fireworks use. Prioritizing safety today can prevent tomorrow's heartbreak.