Fourth of July Fireworks: What the Numbers Reveal About Safety and Fun

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Fourth of July! America's Independence Day! It’s a day for get-togethers, cookouts, parades, and, most prominently, fireworks! 

These dazzling displays over the clear night sky have become a symbol of American patriotism and a highlight of summer festivities. 

This tradition dates back to the earliest celebrations of American independence, when fireworks were used to represent the "rockets' red glare," as described in the national anthem.

With the excitement for fireworks reaching sky-high among the young and old alike on this special day, it’s the perfect time to consider the potential hazards they pose. Fireworks, if not handled properly, can cause serious injuries. 

As their popularity grows, so does the importance of being aware of the safety regulations so that celebrations remain fun and festive rather than ending in a trip to the emergency room.

1. Historical Injury Rates: Fireworks-related injuries have declined significantly over the past few decades. In 1976, the injury rate was 38.3 injuries per 100,000 pounds of fireworks, while by 2022, it had fallen to 2.2 injuries per 100,000 pounds, the lowest in five decades.

3. Revenue Growth: Side by side, the industry has also experienced substantial revenue growth, with consumer fireworks revenue rising from $407 million in 2000 to $2.2 billion in 2023 and display fireworks revenue rising from $203 million in 2000 to $500 million in 2023.

5. Recent Trends: In 2023, the injury rate increased slightly to 3.6 injuries per 100,000 pounds of fireworks. This rise occurred even though fireworks consumption significantly dropped to 273.6 million pounds.

6. Pandemic Surge: From 2020 to 2022, there was an average consumption of 431.7 million pounds, significantly higher than the average of 241.7 million pounds from 2010 to 2019.

7. Enhanced Safety Protocols: Improved safety guidelines, such as using legal fireworks, maintaining safe distances, and proper disposal, have contributed to the declining injury rates.

While the number of fireworks-related injuries has fluctuated over the years, the overall trend shows a decline in injury rates relative to the amount of fireworks consumed in the U.S. This suggests better enforcement of safety regulations, increased public awareness, and the use of safer fireworks.

In 1976, the injury rate was at its highest (38.3 injuries per 100,000 pounds of fireworks), but by 2022, that number fell to 2.2, the lowest in five decades. 

During this period, the total number of injuries from fireworks saw peaks as high as 12,600 in 1986 and 12,800 in 2017, as well as dips as low as 7,300 in 1996 and 7,000 in 2008. 

Despite the overall rise in consumption, especially during the pandemic, when public displays got cancelled and private fireworks use soared, the injury rate per 100,000 pounds (lbs) of fireworks continued to decline. 

In 2020, a year with record consumption, the U.S. saw 15,646 injuries, the highest ever logged. However, compared to the total fireworks consumed that year, the injury rate was negligible (3.8 injuries per 100,000 pounds of fireworks). From then on, both the number and rate of injuries steadily declined until 2022, dropping to 10,163 and 2.2, respectively. 

However, the injury rate rose to 3.6 in 2023, when the number of injuries (9,844) was relatively high in relation to a considerable drop in fireworks consumption (273.6 million lbs).

Fireworks consumption in the U.S. has risen dramatically between 2000 and 2023. This trend reflects the growing popularity of fireworks for personal celebrations beyond the Fourth of July, including New Year's Eve and other festive occasions.

The data shows a steady increase, with a particularly sharp rise in the past decade. In 2000, the total consumption of fireworks across the country was 152.2 million lbs. From then on, the use of fireworks started to climb, reaching a peak of 281.5 million lbs in 2005. 

After that, there was a slight fall in 2006, followed by a fluctuating pattern until 2015, when consumption peaked again at 285.3 million lbs. A notable surge occurred in 2020 with a significant increase to 404.5 million lbs, and this upward trend continued until 2022 with 461.7 million lbs. When comparing 2000 (152.2 million lbs) to 2022 (461.7 million lbs), there is a remarkable growth of more than 200%.

Moreover, the pandemic years alone (from 2020 to 2022), saw a significant surge in consumption compared to the previous decade, with an average of 431.7 million lbs, compared to the average of 241.7 million lbs from 2010 to 2019. 

However, in 2023, fireworks consumption dropped to 273.6 million lbs, suggesting a shift back to pre-pandemic levels while still exhibiting steady growth compared to the early 2000s.

It’s also important to note that the market has been consistently dominated by consumer fireworks as opposed to display fireworks. 

For example, in 2021, consumer fireworks consumption surged to a record-breaking 416.3 million lbs. In contrast, display fireworks have seen less pronounced growth, with the highest consumption recorded at 64.1 million lbs in 2002 and a subsequent decline overall in the following years.

Since the early 2000s, consumer fireworks usage has witnessed consistent growth, rising from 102 million lbs in 2000 to 255 million lbs in 2005. 

Subsequently, the mid-2000s to early 2010s saw some fluctuations, with varying peaks and drops ranging from 252 million lbs in 2006 to 184.4 million lbs in 2010. 

The period between 2011 and 2019 also displayed a mix of highs and lows, peaking at 260.7 million lbs in 2015. 

Furthermore, the years 2020–2022 marked a significant surge in consumption due to the pandemic, with figures soaring to 436.4 million lbs in 2022. However, in 2023, consumption declined to 246.5 million lbs.

Riding the wave of rising fireworks consumption, the industry's revenue increased significantly between 2000 and 2023. This growth is reflected in both the consumer and display fireworks segments, although the consumer segment has seen the most significant increase.

Display fireworks revenue climbed steadily from $203 million in 2000 to $500 million in 2023, with only a notable dip ($ 93 million)in 2020, when public displays were banned because of the pandemic. 

On the other hand, consumer fireworks revenue surged from $407 million in 2000 to a staggering $2.2 billion in 2023.

Consumer fireworks include products sold to the general public, such as sparklers, fountains, and firecrackers, while display fireworks are used in professional shows and large-scale events.

According to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) National Injury Information Clearinghouse (NEISS), fireworks-related injuries are a relatively small proportion of all consumer product-related injuries. 

In 2023, approximately 9,800 Americans were injured in fireworks-related incidents, representing less than 0.1% of all consumer product-related injuries, which is 12.7 million. 

This means that while fireworks can be dangerous, they are responsible for a tiny fraction of the injuries that send Americans to emergency rooms each year.

Other common activities, such as playing baseball or softball, result in far more injuries. According to the CPSC, nearly 140,000 injuries annually are related to baseball and softball, far surpassing those from fireworks.

However, children are still very vulnerable to injury due to their curiosity and lack of experience with fireworks.

To safely enjoy fireworks, it is essential to follow these guidelines:

• Always purchase fireworks from reputable sources.
• Read and follow all instructions on the fireworks packaging.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby for emergencies.
• Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly after lighting.
• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
  

Fireworks-related injuries among children, particularly those aged 5-18, peak between mid-June and mid-July, accounting for nearly 70% of the total annual fireworks-related injuries for children in this age group. 

Despite this peak, these injuries constitute less than 3% of injuries from other summer activities, such as playing on playgrounds, riding bicycles, and swimming. This indicates that while fireworks pose a risk, they are comparatively less dangerous than many other common outdoor activities.

Common causes of fireworks-related injuries among children include mishandling fireworks, such as lighting them in their hands or throwing them, and the inherent curiosity of younger children who may touch or pick up ignited or malfunctioned fireworks. 

Standing too close to fireworks when they are being ignited and the lack of safe distance barriers also contribute significantly to these injuries.

Sparklers, often perceived as safe, burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause severe burns if not handled properly, including improper disposal when still hot. 

A major factor in preventing fireworks-related injuries is close adult supervision. 

Adults should be knowledgeable about fireworks safety and should be present whenever children are using fireworks. Teaching children to light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly, as well as establishing and enforcing a safe distance barrier, can mitigate the risks. 

When using sparklers, children should hold them at arm's length, away from their bodies and others, and a bucket of water should be provided to ensure used sparklers are fully extinguished.

It is also crucial to use only legal consumer fireworks appropriate for the age and maturity of the children involved. Illegal or homemade fireworks pose a significantly higher risk of severe injuries due to their unpredictable nature and higher explosive potential. 

Education plays a vital role in preventing injuries, and organizations like the APA’s Safety & Education Foundation offer resources to reinforce safe practices.

Conclusion

While fireworks are a cherished part of American celebrations, it is crucial to prioritize safety to prevent injuries. By adhering to safety guidelines, supervising children closely, and educating the public about the dangers of improper fireworks use, we can ensure that fireworks remain a source of joy and wonder, not harm. As we continue to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, let us commit to making each celebration safe and injury-free, preserving this vibrant tradition for generations to come.

Methodology

The data and statistics presented in this article are sourced from the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), which provides comprehensive reports on fireworks-related injuries, consumption figures, industry revenue, and safety guidelines.