Fireworks safety at home

Fireworks sent about 13,000 people to the emergency room in 2025, and at least 15 died. The 15-to-24 age group had the largest share of the injuries, and burns to the hands, fingers and head were the most common. The safest way to see fireworks is a public display put on by professionals. For a backyard show, set up the water and the rules before anyone lights a fuse.

Where the injuries happen

Hands and fingers were the most often injured, in about 35% of cases, followed by the head, face and ears at 22%. Burns made up 38% of the emergency room visits. Sparklers alone accounted for about 1,300 of them. The deaths and injuries were linked to misuse and to fireworks that malfunctioned.

Before the first fuse

• Fill a bucket of water and have a garden hose readyIt's for a fire, and for soaking used fireworks.
• Read the label on each fireworkUse each one only as its instructions direct.
• Set aside anything homemade or alteredUse only fireworks labeled for consumer use, not for professional use.
• Keep anyone impaired by alcohol or drugs from lighting fireworks

While they're lit

• Light one firework at a time, then move away quicklyNever pick up one that hasn't fully ignited.
• Keep your face and body out of the wayNever lean over a firework while lighting the fuse.
• Aim nothing at people, animals or buildingsNever throw or point a firework at anyone.
• Keep fireworks off your body and clothingNever hold, wear or attach one, and never hold one in your hand unless its instructions say to.

Children and sparklers

• Keep children away from all fireworks, including sparklersSparklers burn at about 2,000°F, hot enough to melt some metals and to cause serious burns in seconds.
• Never let a young child light a fireworkYoung children shouldn't play with fireworks of any kind, sparklers included.

Afterward

• Leave a dud alone and never relight itWait at least 20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly in water.
• Soak every spent firework before it goes in the trashUse the bucket you filled before the show, or the hose.