By Mary Christine Stevens

For the Mining Gazette

As Independence Day approaches, many are stocking up on sparklers, fountains and all varieties of fireworks. While you celebrate America and all her glory, it’s important to remember to be safe with fireworks. 

According to Investopedia, Americans spend almost $10 billion annually on fireworks. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported an estimated 9,700 firework-related injuries in 2023. Firecrackers and sparklers accounted for 1,500 of those injuries. Fireworks also cause, on average, 19,000 fires a year, according to the National Safety Council. The National Safety Council offers a long list of safety tips to keep you, your family and your home safe this Fourth of July. 

First and foremost,  fireworks should never be set off by young children. Hand-held sparklers are considered safe for older children under adult supervision, but children should not be lighting off firecrackers, fountains, rockets or any other type of large firework. Young children can be injured by sparklers, especially since some can get hot enough to melt metal and cause severe burns. The National Fire Protection Association reported that sparklers alone were responsible for over 25% of firework-related ER visits. Of that 25%, half of the injuries were in children under five. Safe alternatives for younger children include glow sticks and confetti poppers.

For the adults lighting fireworks, it’s recommended to wear eye protection. Ash and other firework debris can be incredibly painful when it comes in contact with the eyes, and could even lead to a medical emergency. It’s also important to ensure that whomever is lighting the fireworks is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

Fireworks should never be lit indoors, as this could cause fires and immense property damage. Only set them off away from people, houses and flammable materials. Additionally, never point fireworks at another person. Inappropriate use of fireworks led to eight deaths in 2023. Relighting malfunctioning fireworks is dangerous, as they could go off when you’re still close to them. Fireworks should be soaked in water before discarding, whether they successfully went off or not. 

Another member of the family to be considered during fireworks is your pet. Fireworks can cause a great deal of stress and fear in animals. Pets may tremble, drool excessively, refuse to eat, lose bladder control, or even try to escape their home or enclosure. The Animal Defense League recommends keeping pets indoors and providing some sort of distraction, like turning on the TV or radio. Toys filled with treats are also a great option. Having a carrier or crate available for your pet to go in may help them feel safe and comfortable. Avoid forcing them into crates and carriers, though, as this may cause further distress. If you must bring your pet to a fireworks show, be sure to keep them secured and away from fireworks and open flames. 

The Fourth of July is a fun event for friends and family nationwide, and following basic safety tips will help ensure everyone has a great time.