Safety Tips: Fireworks

Fireworks-related injuries are most common on and around holidays associated with fireworks celebrations, especially July 4 and New Year's Eve. The following tips may help ensure your safety with regard to fireworks:

• The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals.
• If you plan to use fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area .
• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
• Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks.
• If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
• Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If it is not marked with the contents, directions and a warning label, do not light it.
• Supervise children around fireworks at all times.

June is Fireworks Safety Month , designated to remind the public of the danger of fireworks-related injuries .

Additional Resources:

• Using Fireworks Safely (PDF document)
• Focus on Fire Safety: Fireworks
• Fireworks and Summer Fire Safety
• The Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) Fireworks Information Center
• Fire Safety