Fireworks are a favorite part of summer celebrations, but they can also cause serious injuries in just a matter of seconds. Every year, emergency departments treat thousands of people for burns, eye injuries and hand trauma related to fireworks.
Wellness
Fireworks Safety: How to Celebrate Without Getting Burned
Jun. 29, 2026
Most fireworks injuries are preventable. Taking a few simple precautions can help keep your celebration safe and your loved ones free of burns.
“Every Fourth of July, we care for patients whose lives change in a split second because of fireworks. Many of these injuries often involve the hands, face and eyes, and most are completely preventable. A few moments of caution can prevent a lifetime of disability.” Uzair Qazi, MD, FACS Hand, Plastic & Burn Surgeon, UC Health Burn Center
Fireworks by the Numbers
Even consumer fireworks can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees, which is hot enough to cause severe burns instantly. Sparklers, often thought of as the safest option for children, can burn at nearly 2,000 degrees, making them hot enough to melt some metals.
The most common fireworks injuries include:
- Burns to the hands, fingers, face and legs
- Eye injuries that can lead to permanent vision loss
- Cuts and traumatic injuries from explosions
- Hearing damage from loud blasts
Children and teens are at the highest risk of fireworks-related injuries.
Fireworks Safety Tips
Whether you're lighting fireworks at home or attending a community display, these safety tips can help reduce your risk of injury.
- Leave Fireworks to the Professionals: The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professionally managed public display rather than lighting fireworks yourself.
- Keep Children at a Safe Distance: Never allow young children to handle or ignite fireworks. Even sparklers can cause serious burns. Instead, consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks or LED light wands.
- Read and Follow Instructions:
- Read all directions before lighting
- Use fireworks only outdoors in an open area away from homes, vehicles, dry grass and trees
- Light one firework at a time
- Never hold a firework while lighting it
- Move away immediately after it is lit
- Never Relight a "Dud": If a firework doesn't ignite, don't try to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it in water before disposing of it according to local guidelines.
- Keep Water Nearby: Always have a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher within reach in case a fire starts or someone is burned.
- Avoid Alcohol While Lighting Fireworks: Alcohol and fireworks are a dangerous combination. Designate a responsible adult to handle fireworks and stay alert throughout the display.
- Protect Pets: The loud noises and bright flashes can frighten pets. Keep them indoors in a quiet, secure room during fireworks displays.
What to Do If Someone Gets Burned
If a fireworks burn occurs:
- Move away from the source of the injury
- Cool the burn with cool (not cold or ice) running water for about 20 minutes
- Remove jewelry or tight clothing near the burned area before swelling begins
- Cover the burn with a clean, dry, non-stick dressing or cloth
- Do not apply butter, ointments or home remedies
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- The burn is larger than the person's palm
- The burn affects the face, hands, feet, joints or genitals
- The burn appears deep, charred or white
- There is significant bleeding or an explosion-related injury
- An eye injury has occurred
- The injured person has difficulty breathing
Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
“A burn doesn’t stop causing damage when the flame goes out. The injury can continue to evolve over the next several hours, so early evaluation and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in healing, preserving function, and improving long-term outcomes.” Uzair Qazi, MD, FACS Hand, Plastic & Burn Surgeon, UC Health Burn Center
Expert Burn Care When You Need It
Serious burns require specialized treatment. Prompt care can help reduce complications, preserve function and improve healing.
If you or a loved one experiences a serious burn or fireworks-related injury, the specialists at UC Health’s Burn Center provide expert care for patients with burn injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. Our care team offers advanced treatment, rehabilitation and ongoing support to help patients recover.
How to Reach the UC Health Burn Center
If you or someone you know has experienced a burn injury, call 513-584-BURN (2876). This dedicated hotline connects you directly with the UC Health Burn Center team, where specialists can help determine the appropriate next steps, provide guidance and coordinate care or transfer when needed.
Whether you're seeking immediate assistance after a burn injury or have questions about specialized burn care, 513-584-BURN (2876) is your direct connection to expert support. To learn more about UC Health’s Burn Center and the services we provide, visit uchealth.com.
Celebrate Safely
Fireworks can be a memorable part of summer traditions, but they should never come at the cost of your safety. Planning ahead, supervising children and handling fireworks responsibly can help ensure your celebration ends with lasting memories—not a trip to the emergency department.
