Fireworks and Kids: Not Worth the Risk

Explosive Fireworks Injuries

While fireworks often bring neighborhoods and families together, and stands where they are sold serve as fundraisers for schools and local groups, consumer fireworks can be extremely dangerous for children. That’s why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages families from purchasing and using them. 

An estimated 8,500 people were injured last year from mid-June to mid-July due to fireworks, and approximately a third of those injuries were to children age 14 and under. At least nine people died from fireworks-related injuries in 2021.

The hands, eyes, head, and face are the most common areas injured by fireworks. About a third of those with eye injuries end up with permanent blindness. More than half of the injuries sustained from fireworks are burns, but people can also end up with lacerations, bruises and abrasions. Fireworks injuries can leave scars that are permanently disfiguring. 

No Firework Is Safe

Unfortunately, every type of firework has been associated with significant injury. There is no such thing as safe consumer fireworks. 

Projectiles, such as mortar shells that shoot into the air and explode, as well as fountains, which shoot tall streams of sparks, can often tip over and injure spectators. They can also explode early and harm those setting them off. Close adult supervision is not enough to prevent injury or harm. Over half of all pediatric firework injuries occurred under adult supervision. 

But What About Sparklers?

Many parents believe sparklers are safe for children, but this simply isn’t true. Sparklers account for 10 percent of all firework injuries. 

Sparklers can reach temperatures above 1,000 degrees. Two-thirds of all sparkler injuries occur to children under the age of 5 and are to the skin or eye. 

Other Fireworks Dangers

In addition to direct physical harm, fireworks spark approximately 20,000 fires every year. These fires can lead to further injury. 

Consumer fireworks can additionally cause hearing loss and trauma to family pets. 

Alternative Fun on the 4th

This isn’t to say that children shouldn’t celebrate Independence Day or have fun on the 4th. Of course they should!

Children and their families are encouraged to play together, have cookouts and attend block parties and other social activities. Most communities put on large, free professional fireworks displays where children can not only see larger and more impressive fireworks but also be safe spectators. It’s a great way for the family to spend time together and stay safe. 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about firework safety or any summer concerns, ask your Methodist Physicians Clinic pediatrician.