It’s summertime and the living is easy! As we kick back, relax, and get ready for the height of the season, it’s important to remember the dangers that can come along with one of America’s favorite activities – lighting off fireworks. Each year, families take to their backyards on July 4th to watch the sparkles dance in the sky. While fireworks are best left in the hands of the professionals, it goes without saying that some individuals will fancy themselves “experts” on Independence Day weekend. With eight deaths and 9,700 people treated in the ER for firework injuries in 2023 (Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission 2023 Fireworks Annual Report), taking the proper precautions is not only wise but crucial in keeping you and your loved ones safe.

If you plan on lighting off legal fireworks this year, keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers. Sparkler use constituted nearly as many injuries as fireworks in 2023. Older children should only use them while under close adult supervision.
• Ensure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them. Never use illegal fireworks.
• Absolutely never attempt to light fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Designate a sober friend to set them off, and refrain from using them at all if there isn’t a sober adult present.
• Wear appropriate eyewear.
• Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
• Only set fireworks off outdoors.
• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before disposing of them.
• Keep a bucket of water, a hose, and/or a fire extinguisher close by while lighting fireworks.

If at-home fireworks seem like more than a hassle than they’re worth, the team at CADS highly recommends catching a professional firework show in your area. (It’s 100% safer and typically much more impressive! Not to mention the pets and loud-noise-averse friends in your neighborhood will thank you!)

Stay safe, stay sober, and have fun this Fourth of July!

The Center for Alcohol & Drug Services offers treatment and prevention programs for adolescents and adults struggling with substance use. If you or a loved one may be at risk, take our free online assessment or contact us today to learn more about our offerings.

Read more from CADS:

1. How the Quad Cities Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition is Making a Difference in Our Community

2. The Warning Signs of Problem Gambling and How to Spread Awareness

3. Having Fun in the Sun: Five Tips for a Safe and Healthy Summer