Firework Safety: A Summer Guide to Prevent Injuries

June is National Firework Safety Month; it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves of the importance of firework safety. Every year, fireworks light up the skies, bringing people together to celebrate freedom, community, and summer fun. But as we plan backyard barbecues and community events, it’s essential to keep safety front and center.

This spring, the Northeast has been facing a historic drought, with wildfires reported in New Jersey and even here in Central Pennsylvania. Combined with the inherent risk fireworks bring, this makes firework safety even more critical.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an average of 18,500 fires per year. That’s a staggering number — and most of these incidents are preventable.

Staying safe doesn’t mean skipping the fireworks. It means being smart about how we use them. Legal compliance, proper setup, responsible supervision, and basic protective steps can make all the difference.

ATSPA’s Summer Dos and Don’ts for Firework Safety

✅ DO:

• Follow all local laws regarding fireworks.

• Always have a responsible adult supervising firework activities.

• Read caution labels and performance descriptions before lighting.

• Wear safety glasses while igniting fireworks.

• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from structures, vehicles, and trees.

• Light one firework at a time and step back quickly.

• Properly dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water and placing them in a metal trash can.

• Keep a bucket of water and a running water source, like a hose, nearby.

🚫 DO NOT:

• Never give fireworks to children.

• Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol.

• Never attempt to relight a dud firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water.

• Never make homemade fireworks.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

• Never shoot fireworks into metal or glass containers.

Sparklers

Sparklers are a summer favorite, especially for children. But don’t let their size fool you. Sparklers burn at 1,200°F — hot enough to melt glass and certain metals, and certainly hot enough to cause severe burns.

For comparison:

• Boiling water: 212°F

• Deep fryer oil: 300-375°F

• Candle flame: ~1,000°F

• Propane blowtorch: ~1,200°F

Sparklers account for roughly 25% of firework-related ER visits each year. Because of these risks, the ATSPA always recommends leaving fireworks to the professionals whenever possible.

Fireworks are part of what makes summer special. But safety should always be a part of the celebration.

In 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported an estimated 9,700 firework-related injuries — a slight decrease from 10,000 in 2022. While progress is being made, the numbers remind us that firework safety remains a serious concern.

By following simple guidelines, staying informed, and prioritizing safety, we can all enjoy the magic of fireworks while protecting ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities.

RESOURCES

2025_June_Firework Safety.pdf

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