Fireworks Safety | A Message from Fire Chief Tom Krueger

Leave fireworks to the professionals, it's simply not worth the risk!

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) encourages everyone to let the professionals handle fireworks, it’s simply not worth the risk! Every year across the state accidental fires, burn injuries, loss of limbs and deaths occur due to the use of fireworks.

Fireworks start fires:

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Fireworks started an estimated 12,264 fires in 2021, including 2,082 structure fires, 316 vehicle fires, and 9,866 outside and other fires. These fires caused 29 civilian injuries and $59 million in direct property damage. These fires are not only caused by commercial/consumer fireworks, but also by unregulated novelty fireworks that are sometimes purchased at local supermarkets.

Sparklers, snappers and poppers are also dangerous:

In addition to fireworks, novelties such as sparklers, snappers, and poppers are very dangerous. Sparklers account for the greatest number of fireworks injuries, and often the youngest victims. Sparklers burn in excess of 1200 degrees – hot enough to melt many metals and hot enough turn steel glowing red.  An instantaneous touch of this will cause a burn and may result in permanent damage or scarring.

Fireworks cause injuries:

During the July 2022 seasonal reporting period, 44 hospitals and facilities reported a total of 168 injuries. Approximately 1/3 of all injured persons suffered multiple injuries. More than 50% of all injuries affected hands (23%), injuries to the head/face (15%) and eyes (13%). Second degree burns were the leading type of injury at 21% followed by first degree burns at 17%. Lacerations accounted for 13% of the injuries and abrasions at 13%. Lacerations and Abrasions combined for 26% of injuries. Dismemberment/amputation injuries increased to 20 as compared to 7 in 2021. There is no requirement for healthcare providers to report fireworks injuries and we appreciate their efforts.

Fireworks frighten domestic and wild animals:

Many people enjoy the booming sounds and flashing colors of fireworks, but they can be terrifying, overwhelming⁠ and hazardous for both wild and domestic animals.

On the Fourth of July, many animals become so frightened by the noise and commotion of fireworks that they run from otherwise familiar environments and people, and sadly become lost. They may also suffer devastating or even fatal health effects from the stress. The sudden bright flashes and sounds can cause wild animals to run into roadways, resulting in more car accidents than normal. Wildlife rehabilitation centers are often flooded with traumatized, injured and orphaned wild animals after the holiday. Keep the tips listed above in mind to keep your furry family members safe and calm during the 4th of July.