Like many families, your Fourth of July celebration may include a backyard fireworks show in the name of good old-fashioned family fun. If you choose to light your own fireworks, remember to follow simple fireworks safety tips to keep your family’s “oohs” and “aahs” from turning into cries for help caused by fireworks injuries.
Know the risks of lighting fireworks
“Fireworks can be dangerous and unpredictable,” Marshfield Clinic Health System pediatrician Dr. Jeff Clark said. “They sent approximately 15,600 people to emergency departments around the country in 2020.”
Most people injured by fireworks have wounds to their hands, head or eyes, he said.
Prepare for a safe celebration
Plan ahead for safety before you light fireworks to reduce your risk of injury.
Responsible adults should be the only ones lighting fireworks, Clark said. Wear protective gear; be aware of people, pets and objects around you; handle fireworks carefully; and be prepared in case of an emergency.
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Clark adds that per WI Law, a local permit is required to use firecrackers or any explosive that leaves the ground.
The easiest way to play it safe is to leave the booms and bangs to the professionals. Head to your community’s Fourth of July display with lawn chairs, blankets, snacks and glow sticks.
Keep spectators safe during fireworks
Children and adults should stand or sit several yards away from where fireworks are being lit and in the opposite direction of where the fireworks are aimed.
Even the seemingly safe fireworks (like sparklers) can be dangerous in a child’s hands. 36% of fireworks-related injuries in 2018 were to children less than 15 years old and there were around 500 emergency department treated injures related to sparklers. Glow sticks are a nice alternative to sparklers.
Only a responsible adult should handle fireworks. Don’t light fireworks if you’ve been drinking. Alcohol will impair your judgment and reaction time.
What to wear while lighting fireworks
Wear protective gear, proper clothing and do not carry fireworks in your pocket. The majority of fireworks injuries involve the hands, eyes or head.
Recommended attire:
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves – preferably fireplace gloves
- Ear Protection – if necessary
- Pants
- Long Sleeves
- Covered Shoes
- Clothing that is not loose fitting – so it doesn’t catch fire
Aim fireworks away from groups of people, buildings, trees and dry grass. Light one firework at a time, and quickly move away from a firework after it has been lit.
Keep water near fireworks
Keep a water source, like a garden hose (or several full buckets of water), nearby in case of a fire. Make sure to douse used and defective fireworks with water. Do nott attempt to re-light a firework that doesn’t go off immediately. It could smolder for several minutes and go off as you approach it. To reduce the risk of grass fire, spray down the area with water prior to lighting fireworks.
Keep pets inside and away from fireworks
Pets startled by booms and bangs may:
- Run away
- Bite or scratch someone
- Run near fireworks and get injured
Permit may be required
If you want to add a little more BANG to your fireworks show, then a permit from your municipality may be required.
In Wisconsin, sparklers less than 36 inches, stationary cones and fountains, toy snakes, smoke bombs, caps, noisemakers and confetti poppers can be used without a permit.
Even fireworks that don’t require a permit can cause injury. Safety tips apply to all kinds of fireworks.
For immediate care, visit Marshfield Clinic Health System.
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