Fireworks are one of, if not the biggest highlight, of all Fourth of July festivities. It’s no secret they bring joy and excitement to all ages, but fireworks are also responsible for many fatal accidents and injuries every summer.
Fireworks are to blame for many accidental fires nationwide. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that fireworks cause an average of 18,500 fires per year. The fires include 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 16,900 outside and other fires. The fires are only one example of the damage the use of fireworks creates.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2016, at least four people died and about 11,100 were injured badly enough to need medical treatment after firework-related incidents.
Safety precautions are essential when attending a public display or launching commercial fireworks in your own backyard. Firework safety education is a must, especially when young children are involved. Check out the infographic below for some safety tips to keep you and your children safe this Fourth of July!