Community Corner

The Dangers of Fireworks: Injuries, Deaths, Fires

Sparklers and novelties alone accounted for 38 percent of the 8,600 emergency room fireworks injuries in 2010.

In 2010, about 15,500 reported fires were started by fireworks and 8,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms, according to a report released by the National Fire Protection Association.

There are more fires on a typical Fourth of July than any other day of the year, according to the NFPA. Fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.

Use of consumer fireworks causes fires, injuries and deaths:

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  • In 2010, fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 reported fires, including 1,100 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 14,100 outside and other fires.
  • These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported deaths, 60 civilian injuries and $36 million in direct property damage.
  • The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages five to 14, with more than twice the risk for the general population.
  • Sparklers and novelties alone accounted for 38 percent of the 8,600 emergency room fireworks injuries in 2010.

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