2020 Spike in Fireworks-Related Injuries and Deaths: Safety Is Critical for 4th of July Celebrations

by Monica Wood · Published July 2, 2021 · Updated July 2, 2021

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) 2020 Fireworks Report, the United States experienced a significant increase in fireworks-related injuries and deaths last year. “Many municipalities cancelled July 4th public fireworks displays during the COVID- 19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic, which may have spurred consumers to use fireworks on their own.”

The 2020 Fireworks Report is the latest in a series of CPSC annual investigations on injuries and deaths associated with fireworks devices, as well as kits and components used to manufacture illegal fireworks.

CPSC Fireworks Safety Tips:

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.

Light fireworks one at a time, then move away from the fireworks device quickly.

Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.

Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.

After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.

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.

For more information on topics related to this topic, please visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s multi-media news release available in English and Español.

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