As the Fourth of July approaches, Mount Nittany Health shares important reminders to ensure you and your families stay safe during the holiday. Fireworks can be a thrilling part of summer celebrations, but safety must be a top priority to prevent accidents and injuries.

According to a 2023 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report, there were eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries involving fireworks last year. Additionally, the report included further analysis of the fireworks injury-related data. The report found that:

• Across the country, there were an estimated 800 emergency department-treated injuries associated with firecrackers and 700 with sparklers.
• Teenagers 15 to 19 years of age had the highest estimated rate of emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries, with children ages 5-9 years old having the second highest rate.
• About 42 percent of the emergency department-treated fireworks-related injuries were for burns.
• The parts of the body most often injured by fireworks were the hands and fingers (an estimated 35 percent of injuries) along with head, face, and ears (an estimated 22 percent).

Celebrate safely by following these three essential fireworks safety tips:

• Follow Local Laws and Guidelines: always adhere to local regulations regarding fireworks. Only use legal, consumer-grade fireworks, and follow the instructions on the packaging. Avoid homemade fireworks and never attempt to relight a dud.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Set up fireworks in an open, clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials. Keep spectators at a safe distance, and designate a single person to handle fireworks. Always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies.
• Protect Yourself and Others: Wear safety glasses when lighting fireworks and never hold them in your hand. Light one firework at a time and move back quickly. Ensure children are supervised at all times and keep them away from the launch area. Wear earplugs to protect your hearing.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy fireworks responsibly and ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!