Celebrate the Holiday in a safe manner
information released
Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually, and burns account for 44% of the 9,100 injuries treated in emergency rooms seen in the month around July 4. Half of the fireworks injuries seen at emergency rooms were extremities: hand, finger, or leg, with one-third to the eye or other parts of the head.
Last year in Washington State, there were a reported 508 fireworks-related fires and injuries reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office by fire agencies and hospitals. This was a decrease from 2021, which had a total of 912 reported incidents. Of the 508 incidents reported in 2022, there were 310 fires and 198 injuries. Sparklers can burn at 1300°F, enough to burn glass, wood, and boil water. They account for one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries, with children ages 10-14 having the highest rate of the injuries.
The SFMO urges all residents to practice fireworks safety by:
- Never allowing children to play or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
- Making sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying our using them.
- Keeping a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of a fire.
- Lighting fireworks one at a time, then moving back quickly with caution.
- Never trying to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Not using fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Always being prepared, safe, and responsible.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3929.
