As we gather to celebrate the Fourth of July, one tradition remains constant, burns. While fireworks are a popular way to celebrate, they also pose significant risks when not handled properly. Each year, thousands of people, both adults and children, suffer preventable burn injuries, eye injuries, and fire-related accidents. By following a few simple safety precautions, families can enjoy a fun and safe holiday.
Fireworks Safety Tips:
Adult Supervision is Essential
Children should never handle fireworks without adult supervision, including sparklers. Although sparklers may appear harmless, they can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,200°F, hot enough to cause severe burns and ignite clothing.
Keep a Safe Distance
Always maintain a safe distance from fireworks before, during, and after ignition. Never lean over fireworks while lighting them and move away immediately after lighting. If a firework does not ignite properly, do not attempt to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes and then soak it thoroughly with water before disposing of it. Feel free to contact your local fire department for more prevention tips or questions.
Burn Prevention Tips
Burn injuries continue to be among the most common Fourth of July-related emergencies. In 2025 alone, more than 5,400 people were treated for firework-related burns.
To prevent burns:
- Avoid holding fireworks in your hands.
- Protect your eyes—never hold fireworks near your face.
- Never point fireworks toward another person.
- Wear closed-toe shoes when handling fireworks.
- Keep loose clothing away from open flames and sparks.
- Teach children to stay away from lit fireworks and launch areas.
- Immediately cool minor burns with cool (not ice-cold) running water for 10–20 minutes.
- Always have a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher readily available when using fireworks.
For serious burns, call 911 immediately and seek emergency medical care.
Fire and Burn Prevention at Home
Grilling Safety
Many Fourth of July fires occur due to improperly discarded charcoal, misuse of materials or unattended grills. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, deck railings, and any overhanging branches.
- Never use a grill in a garage, tent, covered patio, or any enclosed space due to fire hazards and the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
- Maintain a “safe zone” by establishing a 3-foot kid- and pet-free area around the grill.
- Clean grills regularly by emptying grease traps, removing food debris, and fat buildup to prevent grease fires.
- Never throw water on a grease fire. Instead, control flare-ups by closing the grill lid or moving food to a cooler area
- Always have a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher readily available.
- NEVER use unapproved accelerants like gasoline, diesel fuel, or kerosene to light grills. Lighter fluid when used properly is safe, but using fire starter cubes or a chimney charcoal starter is the safest option.
Know When to Call 911
Call 911 immediately if someone experiences:
- Difficulty breathing due to smoke inhalation
- Severe burns
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Eye injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Any fire that cannot be quickly extinguished
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence and spend time with loved ones. By practicing fire safety, burn prevention, and responsible fireworks use, everyone can enjoy a safe and injury-free holiday. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
