Fireworks Injuries Affected More Than 14,000 People in 2024: CPSC

Federal regulators are reminding Americans that fireworks can be deadly, heading into the Fourth of July holiday.

As Americans prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July this week, federal safety regulators warn they should take caution, as fireworks caused multiple deaths and thousands of injuries last year.

According to a U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report published on June 25, more than 14,700 people in the U.S. were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2024, with at least 11 fatalities reported.

The CPSC indicates that most of these deaths resulted from improper use of fireworks or incidents involving misfires and product malfunctions. 

Among those injured, over 36% sustained damage to their hands and fingers, while approximately 22% suffered injuries to the head, face or ears. Many victims experienced severe burns, amputations or lasting disfigurement, with burns alone accounting for nearly 40% of all ER-treated injuries.

CPSC officials said more than 1,700 sparkler-related injuries were treated in emergency rooms in 2024. Despite their harmless appearance, sparklers burn at temperatures nearing 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt metals like gold, copper, aluminum, and silver.

From 2023 to 2024, there was an increase in deaths linked to fireworks by 38%, and an increase in injuries by more than 50%.

The majority of the injuries, 32% overall, were among adults ages 25 to 44. However, people ages 15 to 24 accounted for 24% of all injuries in 2024.

“Behind these numbers are real people, real families — and often, preventable incidents. Fireworks injuries don’t just happen on the Fourth of July. We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly — because safety must always come first.”

-Peter Feldman, CPSC acting chairman

The CPSC warned consumers to exercise caution when using fireworks on the Fourth of July holiday this year, and to adhere to the following safety tips:

• Never allow young children to play with or light fireworks, including sparklers
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby, in case of fire
• Verify fireworks are legal in your area and only buy fireworks that are labeled for consumer use
• Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Light fireworks one at a time and move away quickly
• Never try to re-light fireworks that have not ignited
• Do not pick up fireworks that are lit
• Follow all instructions and warnings printed on the fireworks label

For more fireworks safety tips, consumers can visit the CPSC’s fireworks safety page.

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