Independence Day is the most ‘explosive’ celebration of the year: From communitywide pyrotechnics to backyard fireworks displays, lighting up the night sky can be thrilling. It can also be dangerous, even deadly.
At least nine people died and an estimated 11,500 people were injured in fireworks-related accidents last year, according to a new report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Trevor White was among them. The 23-year-old West Georgia man was killed when a firework he was holding over his head shot backward and hit him in the torso, causing massive trauma.
Between 2006 and 2021, injuries by fireworks climbed 25% in the U.S., CPSC estimates. And while all consumer fireworks are now legal in Georgia (they have been since 2015), federal and state regulators are warning people to be careful while handling them this holiday weekend.
WATCH A family’s tragedy with consumer fireworks
Safety tips
“Two-thirds to three-fourths of all fireworks injuries occur during the four-week period surrounding Independence Day,” says Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. “On the Fourth of July itself, fireworks usually start more fires nationwide than all other causes combined.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 9,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms every year for fireworks-related injuries and most of those incidents involve children. Here are some good safety tips to follow:
- Always read and follow label directions
- Only use fireworks outdoors
- Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks
- Only light one firework at a time
- Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
- Fireworks should only be used with close adult supervision
- Never give fireworks to small children
- Be sure to have water handy
- Never throw fireworks at another person
- Remember to call your local 911 for emergencies
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends wearing earplugs if you are going to be exposed to fireworks for an extended period of time.
And remember your neighbors and pets. Fireworks can be frightening for people suffering from PTSD and for animals. Be respectful of those around you.
In Georgia, the use of fireworks is legal until 11:59 p.m. on July 3 and 4. Outside of those specific days, consumer fireworks are permitted between the hours of 10 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. as long as their use does not violate local noise ordinances. Check with your local governing authority to see if any restrictions apply.
