Celebrate safely: Firework tips for a safe Fourth of July

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 1, 2025) – The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, with backyard barbecues, parades and, of course, firework displays. While fireworks are a beloved tradition, they also come with real risks.

Each year in the U.S., thousands of people — many of them children and teens — are injured by fireworks. As Kentuckians gear up for the holiday, it’s important to prioritize safety alongside celebration.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 10,000 firework-related injuries are treated in emergency rooms each year.

Srinath Kamineni, M.D., UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine surgeon, is routinely on-call during the Fourth of July weekend for arm and hand injuries that could happen during the holiday celebrations. He says the most common injuries involve burns to the hands, face and eyes.

Although the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professional show that is conducted under controlled conditions by trained experts, Kamineni shared his top safety tips for those participating in fireworks at home.

Safety starts with smart choices

If you do choose to use consumer fireworks, make sure you do so responsibly:

• Follow local laws and ordinances. Fireworks are illegal in some areas. Be sure to check your city or county’s rules before purchasing or using them.
• Read and follow all instructions. Never modify fireworks or attempt to make your own.
• Sparklers aren’t toys. Although often thought of as a “safe” option for kids, sparklers burn at temperatures hot enough to cause third-degree burns. Even small fireworks can be unpredictable and dangerous if not handled properly.
• Keep fireworks away from lighted fuse source. The source you are using to light fireworks should be kept away from all other explosives until ready to be lit.
• Never hold fireworks. Do not hold, throw or point fireworks at anyone.
• Have water nearby. Keep a bucket of water or garden hose ready in case of a fire or malfunction.
• Light fireworks one at a time and then move away quickly.
• Never relight a dud. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it in water before throwing it away.
• Keep children at a safe distance. Never allow young kids to handle fireworks or sparklers. Older children should always be supervised closely.

What to do if someone gets hurt

In the event of an injury, act quickly:

• For minor burns, run cool water over the area and cover it with a clean cloth.
• For serious burns or injuries to the eyes or face, seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to treat eye injuries yourself.

Remember, fireworks are not toys — they’re explosives. Treat them with the same caution you would any other hazardous item.

This Fourth of July, keep safety top of mind. With a little planning and caution, you can enjoy the fun and excitement of fireworks without a trip to the emergency room. Celebrate responsibly and make it a holiday to remember — for all the right reasons.