The 4th of July is about a week away now! According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) research, every 4th of July, thousands of people (most often children and teens) are injured while using fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks - devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death (and civil/criminal liability).
Fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2022, Burns account for 44% of the 9.100 injuries treated in the emergency rooms seen in July around the 4th. Half of those injuries were to extremities like hands, fingers, or legs. One-third were to the eyes and other parts of the head. Children ages 10-14 had the highest rate of injury with more than one-third (36%) of the victims being under the age of 15.
Even fireworks sold as “safe and sane” (like sparklers and other novelties) reach temperatures of over 1200 degrees (water boils at 212 degrees and glass melts at 900 degrees). Sparklers account for one-quarter of the injuries in emergency rooms.
Most fireworks in Arizona are illegal, specifically, anything that explodes or leaves the ground. The Yuma Fire Department responds to fires in palm trees, trash receptacles, and other firework-related emergencies every year.
Have a happy and safe 4th of July and enjoy a professional fireworks display!
END
