Each July 4 thousands of people, most often kids and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks.
A new study by the National Fire Protection Association estimated 15,500 reported fires were started by fireworks on July 4, 2010 and 8,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms.
There are more fires on a typical Fourth of July than any other day of the year, the study found, and fireworks accounted for two out of five of them—more than any other cause of fires. With extremely dry conditions throughout the U.S. this year, the risk of a fire spreading is higher than normal.
“Thousands of people are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year because of incidents involving consumer fireworks and many times these injuries are extremely painful and require long-term recovery – using consumer fireworks is simply not worth the risk,” James Shannon, president of the NFPA, said in a statement. “We encourage families to enjoy public displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals.”
The total number of fires includes 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 report demonstrates using consumer fireworks heightens the risk of injury and even death. The study showed the risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 5-14 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.
The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is reminding homeowners to enjoy the holiday, but to practice safety particularly with the use of fireworks.
“With record-setting fires burning in several western states, there is heightened awareness regarding fire safety,” Chris Hackett director of personal lines for PCI, said in a statement. “Traditionally from now through mid-July the majority of fires caused by fireworks occur. Fireworks can set off house fires and, with dry conditions, the risk of grass fires and brush fires increases as well. By following state laws and taking extra precaution, many fires resulting from fireworks can be prevented. “
However, generally PCI encourages homeowners to take the necessary steps to protect their families and property in the event of a household fire or wildfire. PCI encourages homeowners and renters to prepare by regularly reviewing their property insurance policy with their insurance company or agent.
PCI advises homeowners and renters to conduct a home inventory of personal possessions, keep receipts in a fire-proof cabinet and make a video of the contents of each room in the home. It also recommends creating a family evacuation plan so each member of the family knows where to meet and what to do in the case of a fire.
“With dry conditions in many parts of the US, it is very important for individuals to exercise extreme caution this Fourth of July,” Hackett said. “Fire losses damage more than just property, cherished possessions like photo albums and family memorabilia can be gone forever. All homeowners should make certain they have adequate insurance protection and for families in areas prone for wildfires, they also take steps to reduce their exposure to the risk of loss.”
