June 30, 2023 – As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, families will be enjoying barbeques, time together and of course—fireworks. Although they may look beautiful lighting up the nighttime sky, safety agencies across the nation have offered their best tips for how to safely celebrate the holiday.
According to the National Safety Administration, thousands of people are injured each year because of fireworks-related injuries, especially among children and young adults. By law, the only fireworks permitted for residential use in Illinois are “novelty fireworks,” including sparklers and smoke bombs. Although other types of fireworks, such as firecrackers and Roman candles, can be purchased in neighboring states, they are illegal for private use in the state. Display permits are required for all public displays, including those hosted by local cities and townships.
“Fireworks have been a tradition for many during the Fourth of July, but this is a dangerous tradition that lands many in hospitals each year with burns, lost limbs, or worse, losing their life,” James Rivera, the Illinois State Fire Marshal, said in a press release. “This can all be avoided by simply leaving fireworks to the professional and attending a show put on by your local community.”
Experts recommend going to organized fireworks shows if you’re looking to enjoy the bright colors and loud pops that come along with Independence Day (a list of area displays complied by NowDecatur.com can be found HERE). But if you’re choosing to legally celebrate at home with a sparkler or two, agencies across the nation recommend the following tips to stay safe.
- Follow usage guidance. Always read directions and warning labels. Children should always be under close adult supervision when handling fireworks, especially sparklers, which can burn as hot as 2,000 degrees and cause severe burns. Ensure you’re only lighting fireworks outside.
- Cast duds aside. If a faulty firework doesn’t go off, do not attempt to re-light it. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and then place it in a bucket of water.
- Keep a safety perimeter. Maintain a safe distance between any lit fireworks. For ground-based fireworks, at least 35 feet of distance is recommended, and you’ll want to back up at least 150 feet for aerial fireworks.
- Mind your surroundings. Never point or throw fireworks at another person, a house or any flammable material.
- Remember your pets. Loud booms and bright colors can be scary and stressful for dogs, cats and more, so make sure they’re safely inside before the festivities begin—even if you aren’t lighting fireworks in your backyard. To keep them comfortable, close the blinds, turn on the TV for a distraction and check on them frequently.
- Stay sober. Avoid consuming alcohol or other impairing substances if you’re anywhere around fireworks.
For more information and other tips, visit the National Safety Council’s website by clicking HERE or the Department of Homeland Security’s website HERE. Celebrate safely!
