Millions of people will be gathering to enjoy fireworks at historic 250th Independence Day celebrations this year across the country.
Every year, fireworks cause thousands of preventable injuries. Even sparklers, which can burn at temperatures above 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, can cause serious burns if not used carefully.
As the nation marks this historic national milestone, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, wants Americans to use common sense and take a few simple steps to prevent injuries.
For 2025, the CPSC received reports of at least 15 deaths and an estimated 13,000 emergency department-treated injuries linked to fireworks misuse and malfunction. An estimated 1,300 injuries involved sparklers alone.
The 15-to-24 age group accounted for the largest share of injuries, and burns to the hands, fingers, and head were most common. Many of the most severe incidents involved devices that tipped over, malfunctioned, or were used too close to people.
“For 250 years, Americans have celebrated our nation’s independence with family, friends, and fireworks,” Acting CPSC Chairman Peter A. Feldman said in a statement. “As we mark this historic milestone, enjoy the celebration, use common sense, and treat fireworks with the respect they deserve.”
Tips to celebrate safely
- Buy only legal consumer fireworks from reputable retailers. Never use homemade, altered or illegal fireworks, and always follow the instructions on the label.
- Keep children away from fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures hot enough to melt some metals and can cause serious burns in seconds.
- Keep water nearby. Have a bucket of water or a garden hose ready in case of fire or to safely soak used fireworks.
- Don’t hold fireworks that are lighted, like the person in the photo. To light a Roman candle, stabilize it on a flat, open surface using a launch tube, bucket of sand, or stake, then ignite the fuse from the side with a punk or long lighter and move at least 15–20 feet away before it fires. Never hold a Roman candle in your hand while lighting it.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Light one firework at a time, then move away quickly. Never lean over a firework while lighting the fuse.
- Never aim, throw, or point fireworks at people, animals, or buildings. Never hold, wear, or attach fireworks to your body or clothing. Use fireworks only as directed by the manufacturer.
- Don’t relight a “dud.” Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly in water before disposing of it.
- Try the safest way to celebrate: Leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy public fireworks displays in your community.
Report unsafe products
Consumers who see fireworks that appear unsafe, mislabeled, toy-like, or designed to be held while firing should report them through SaferProducts.gov.
For more fireworks safety tips, visit Fireworks | CPSC.gov.
