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Fireworks Injuries
Fact Sheet
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graphic of firecracker explodingSpotlight on Injuries from Fireworks 

All fireworks are dangerous, especially to children. In 2003, 9,300 people were treated in U.S. emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries. Children 14 years and younger sustained about 45% of injuries related to fireworks, and boys represented 72% of all those injured. Typically, two thirds of injuries from fireworks in the United States occur in the days surrounding the July 4th holiday. 

Injuries from fireworks most often affect the hands and fingers, eyes, and head and face.  

Under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, the federal government banned the sale of the largest and most dangerous fireworks to consumers. Some states have banned the general public’s use of fireworks altogether. The U.S. National Fire Protection Association and CDC strongly recommend that fireworks be used only by professionals. 

Quick Facts 

In 2003, emergency departments treated 9,300 people for fireworks-related injuries in the United States, and 4 people died from their injuries. 

  • Almost half of these injuries occurred among children ages 14 years and younger. 
  • Males sustained about 72% of all injuries. 
  • Hands and fingers (26%), eyes (21%), and head and face (18%) were the parts of the body most frequently injured.
  • More than half of the injuries involved burns (63%). 
  • Injuries were most commonly associated with fire-crackers (24%), rockets (18%), and sparklers (21%). 

Source: Greene MA, Joholske J. 2003 Fireworks Annual Report: Fireworks-Related Deaths, Emergency Department Treated Injuries, and Enforcement Activities During 2003. Washington (DC): U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; 2004[cited 1 July 2004]. Available at URL: http://www.cpsc.gov/LIBRARY/2002fwreport.pdf 

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Phone: 770.488.1506
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Email: OHCINFO@cdc.gov


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This page last reviewed 08/05/04.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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