Fireworks safety: 7 tips to keep summer celebrations fun and safe

Fireworks are a staple of summer celebrations, but the fun, colorful displays can quickly become dangerous if you’re not careful.

In fact, in 2016, more than 3,000 children and young adults under the age of 20 and nearly 4,000 adults ages 20-44 in the U.S. were taken to emergency rooms with injuries related to fireworks.

Before you and your family head outside to enjoy the Fourth of July and other summer festivities, check out our tips for staying safe around fireworks.

1. Leave it to the professionals.

Instead of setting off fireworks at home, attend a public fireworks display. You’ll be out of harm’s way and still be able to enjoy the show.

2. If you are using fireworks at home, take precautions.

Never let children play with or light fireworks, and always read all warning labels before use.

3. Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

And be sure to stand several feet away from lit fireworks.

4. Have an extinguisher nearby.

A bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher will work.

5. Don’t try to relight a firework that hasn’t worked properly.

Instead, put it out with water and get rid of it.

6. Be careful with sparklers.

Sparklers heat up to more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and present a real health risk, especially for small children. Instead of sparklers, let your little ones use glow sticks – they’ll have fun and stay safe, too.

7. Be prepared for an emergency.

Have a phone nearby in case you need to call 911, and teach children what to do if their clothing catches fire (stop, drop and roll). In the case of an eye injury, avoid touching or rubbing it, which can make the injury worse, and get help immediately.