Summer brings fun and fireworks. One of the big childhood memories many of us share is holding those bright sparklers in our hands and waving them around in grandmom’s back yard. They were so much fun — but we’ve learned it’s best to leave fireworks and sparklers to the pros. The risks are real.

Safe Kids Worldwide reports that more than 3,000 children under the age of 15 go to the emergency room each year due to fireworks-related injuries. In a report by the Consumer Product Safety commission, children 10 to 14 years of age had the highest estimated rate of emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries, and older teens, 15 to 19 years of age, had the second highest estimated rate.

For July 4 fun, use glow sticks, confetti, or glow-in-the-dark silly string instead.

Reports indicate that there were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths, most involving misuse and device misfire/malfunctions. An estimated 14,700 people were injured by fireworks last year – a sharp increase of about 38% in deaths and about 52% in injuries respectively compared to 2023. There were an estimated 1,700 emergency room treated injuries in 2024 involving sparklers.

Use glow sticks, confetti, or glow-in-the-dark silly string instead.

Laws on personal use of fireworks and sparklers vary. Know the rules about personal fireworks in your state or county. Best yet, leave the fireworks to the pros, and attend a public fireworks display instead.

Despite laws against them, fireworks remain ubiquitous, especially around the Fourth of July, so remember:

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
  • Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.
  • Make sure fireworks are legal in your area and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
  • Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
  • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Follow all instructions and warnings on fireworks and never hold them in hand unless instructions specify to do so.

Start new summer holiday traditions with your family — spread out your picnic blanket, break out colored glow sticks for the kids, lay back and enjoy the show together.

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