DIY Fireworks Display? Read This First!

Fireworks can make celebrations more exciting, but they can also cause serious burns, eye injuries, hearing damage and fires. An estimated 14,700 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in 2024, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The safest option is to attend a professional fireworks display. When fireworks are permitted and used at home, these fireworks safety tips can help protect you, your family and your pets.

Keep Children and Pets at a Safe Distance

Young children and pets may be curious about fireworks, but they should remain safely away from them. Never allow children to light fireworks. Closely supervise older children and teenagers throughout the celebration.

Keep pets indoors whenever possible. Close windows and doors, and turn on the television or play soft music to help reduce the sound if your pet becomes anxious during fireworks displays.

Create a Fireworks Safety Zone

Adults and children watching the display should remain well away from the area where fireworks are being lit. Clearly mark a safety zone using stakes, garden twine or party decorations.

Follow the distance listed on each product’s packaging. Make sure spectators stay behind the safety perimeter until the display is over and the area has been checked for fireworks that did not ignite.

Do Not Underestimate Sparklers

Sparklers may seem safer because they do not explode, but they can reach temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. They can cause severe burns, ignite clothing and injure the eyes.

Do not give sparklers to young children. Glow sticks, light-up toys and flags are safer alternatives. Closely supervise older children who use sparklers, and teach them to hold sparklers away from their face, body and clothing.

Do Not Mix Alcohol and Fireworks

Alcohol and other substances can affect judgment, balance and reaction time. Choose one responsible adult to operate the fireworks and make sure that person remains sober throughout the celebration.

Wear Protective Gear

The person lighting fireworks should wear protective clothing and equipment, including:

• Sturdy, heat-resistant gloves
• Long sleeves and full-length pants
• Safety goggles or glasses
• Earplugs or over-the-ear hearing protection
• Closed-toe shoes

Consider providing hearing protection for spectators as well, especially children. Loud fireworks can cause ringing in the ears, sensitivity to sound and permanent hearing damage.

Use Fireworks Properly

How fireworks are handled can have a major effect on safety. Follow these precautions:

• Read and follow all packaging instructions.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Move away immediately after lighting a firework.
• Never hold a lit firework in your hand unless the product is specifically designed for handheld use.
• Never light fireworks indoors or inside a container.
• Do not point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never attempt to relight a firework that does not ignite.
• Keep unused fireworks outside the safety perimeter until they are needed.
• Purchase fireworks only from a licensed and reputable seller.

Check the Weather and Local Conditions

Monitor the weather during the days leading up to your celebration. Dry conditions, low humidity and strong winds can increase the risk of a fire spreading.

Do not use fireworks during a Red Flag Warning, fire weather watch or local burn restriction. Check guidance from your local fire department or emergency management agency before beginning your display.

Be Prepared to Extinguish a Fire

Before lighting fireworks, make sure you can respond quickly if a fire starts. Keep a connected garden hose or buckets of water nearby.

Place a working fire extinguisher within easy reach. Check its expiration date and review the instructions before the celebration begins.

Follow State and Local Fireworks Laws

Fireworks laws vary by state, county and city. Review the rules in your area before purchasing or using fireworks. Following local requirements can help prevent injuries, fires and fines.

Dispose of Fireworks Safely

Fireworks safety continues after the display ends. Do not immediately pick up or approach fireworks that failed to ignite because they may still explode.

Once the area is safe, soak used, unused and defective fireworks in water for several hours. Place them in a trash bag and dispose of them in your regular household trash. Do not place fireworks in a recycling bin.

How to Treat a Minor Fireworks Burn

For a minor burn, immediately place the affected area under cool running water or apply a cool, wet compress for approximately 10 minutes. Do not use ice because it can cause additional skin damage.

Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly two or three times per day. Cover the burn with a sterile, nonstick bandage and do not pop any blisters that form.

Call 911 for a severe injury, significant bleeding, trouble breathing or an injury involving the eye. Seek prompt medical care when:

• The burn is deep or larger than the palm of the injured person’s hand.
• The burn affects the face, hands, feet, groin or a major joint.
• Clothing has melted onto the skin.
• Pain, swelling or redness continues to worsen.
• The area develops pus, drainage, red streaks or other signs of infection.
• You are uncertain about the severity of the injury.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fireworks Safety

What is the safest way to enjoy fireworks?

Attending a professional fireworks display is the safest option. Professional displays are managed by trained operators and provide more distance between spectators and fireworks.

Are sparklers safe for children?

Sparklers are not considered safe for young children. They can reach temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and may cause serious burns or eye injuries. Glow sticks and light-up toys are safer alternatives.

What should I do when a firework does not go off?

Do not approach or attempt to relight it. Wait until the display is over and the area is safe. Soak the defective firework thoroughly in water before disposing of it.

How far away should people stand from fireworks?

Follow the safety distance listed on the product packaging. Set up a clearly marked perimeter and keep all spectators, children and pets behind it.

Can fireworks damage your hearing?

Yes. A single loud explosion at close range can cause ringing in the ears, temporary hearing changes or permanent hearing loss. Keep a safe distance and wear hearing protection, especially when children are present.

When should I seek emergency care for a fireworks injury?

Call 911 for severe burns, eye injuries, heavy bleeding, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness. Burns involving the face, hands, feet, groin or major joints should also receive prompt medical evaluation.