Size of the Fireworks Problem
On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
- In 2008, fireworks caused an estimated 22,500 reported fires, including 1,400 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 20,600 outside and other fires.
- These fires resulted in an estimated 1 civilian death, 40 civilian injuries and $42 million in direct property damage.
Characteristics of Fireworks Injuries
In 2008, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 7,000 people for fireworks related injuries.
- 53% of 2008 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 37% were to the head.
- 57% of the 2008 fireworks injuries were burns, while 20% were contusions and lacerations.
- Two of five (40%) people injured by fireworks were under the
age of 15. - The risk of fireworks injury was highest for teens ages 15-19
and children 5-9, both with at least 2-1/2 times the risk for the general population. - Sparklers, fountains, and novelties alone accounted for 32% of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2008.
Risk of Private Fireworks Use
The risk of fire death relative to time used shows fireworks as the riskiest consumer
product.
- The risk that someone will die from fire when fireworks are being used is higher relative to exposure time than the risk of fire death when a cigarette is being smoked.
- The risks with fireworks are not limited to displays, public or private. Risks also exist wherever fireworks are manufactured, transported, stored or sold.
- “Safe and sane” fireworks are neither. Fireworks and sparklers are designed to explode or throw off showers of hot sparks. Temperatures may exceed 1200°F.
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