A block party boy in San Bernardino, Calif. was held last July when an illegal mortar-style firework struck his upper body. The boy, aged 8, died.
A 23-year-old Georgian man was struck in the back by a firework that he had placed over his head and killed. This caused severe trauma.
According to a U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report, at least nine people were killed and approximately 11,500 were injured by fireworks-related incidents last year.
Since 2006, the number of injuries has increased 25%. Federal regulators warn people to be cautious when handling recreational pyrotechnics.
Alex Hoehn Saric, Chair of the commission, stated in a statement that “It is imperative that consumers understand the risks associated with fireworks so injuries and tragedies may be prevented.” The best way to see professional fireworks displays is to enjoy them.
In 2020, the number of fireworks-related injuries in emergency departments rose to 15,600. However regulators suggested that this could be because some fireworks displays were shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CPSC studied a period of one month last year, which included the Fourth of July. It found that while women were more likely than men to get hurt, those between 20 and 24 had the highest rates of injuries, and that victims who sustained severe injuries to their fingers and hands most often suffered from them.
Here are some tips from the National Safety Council and the Commission on safe fireworks use:
