For Americans, Fourth of July celebrations usually signify summer fun, vacations, and the gathering of family and friends, but Independence Day can also bring tragedy. In a typical year, more U.S. fires are reported on July 4 than on any other day and fireworks account for half of those fires. Sparklers, firecrackers, and rockets are the leading contributors to these injuries. Because most fireworks injuries are preventable, everyone can enjoy a safe and happy holiday by following a few fireworks safety tips. (From FEMA Website) Who is at Most Risk?
In 2007, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 9,800 people for fireworks related injuries.
- 56% of 2007 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 36% were to the head.
- 49% of the 2007 fireworks injuries were burns, while 29% were contusions and lacerations.
- Two of 5 people injured by fireworks were under the age of 15.
- The risk of fireworks injury was 2 ½ times as high for children ages 5-14 as for the general population.
- Sparklers, fountains, and novelties alone accounted for 56% of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2007.
- 30,100 =
- Estimated number of fires caused by fireworks each year
- 9,500 =
- Estimated number of injuries caused by fireworks each year
- 11 =
- Fireworks-related deaths occurred in 2007
- $34 million =
- Amount of direct property loss caused by fireworks in 2006
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