June 30, 2023
Olympia – Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually, and burns account for 44% of the 9,100 injuries treated in emergency rooms seen in the month around July 4. Half of the fireworks injuries seen at emergency rooms were extremities: hand, finger, or leg, with one-third to the eye or other parts of the head.
Last year in Washington State, there were a reported 508 fireworks-related fires and injuries reported to the State Fire Marshal’s Office by fire agencies and hospitals. This was a decrease from 2021, which had a total of 912 reported incidents. Of the 508 incidents reported in 2022, there were 310 fires and 198 injuries. Sparklers can burn at 1300°F, enough to burn glass, wood, and boil water. They account for one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries, with children ages 10-14 having the highest rate of the injuries.
The SFMO urges all residents to practice fireworks safety by:
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- Never allowing children to play or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
- Making sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying our using them.
- Keeping a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of a fire.
- Lighting fireworks one at a time, then moving back quickly with caution.
- Never trying to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Not using fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Always being prepared, safe, and responsible.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3929.