As Independence Day approaches, the State Fire Marshal’s Office is emphasizing the importance of firework safety in light of increasing injury rates. Data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reveals a troubling rise in firework-related injuries from 2008 to 2023.
The year 2024 marked a particularly grim milestone with approximately 10,000 firework-related emergency room visits and 18 fatalities, setting a record for such incidents. Alarmingly, 36% of the injured were children under the age of 15, and 15% of all injuries resulted in permanent damage or disfigurement.
These incidents have led to significant legal actions, with several high-profile cases in states like California and Texas resulting in multimillion-dollar settlements. The financial burden of treatment for severe injuries has been reported to exceed $150,000, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures, stricter regulations, and improved public awareness.
State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney stressed the importance of personal responsibility when using fireworks at home. “It’s up to you to implement safety standards,” he said, urging individuals to use common sense, avoid pointing fireworks at people, and properly dispose of them in water to prevent fires.
To minimize the risk of injury, the Mississippi State Fire Marshal offers several safety guidelines:
- Always read and follow the directions on each firework.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Purchase fireworks from reputable sellers and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Ensure adult supervision is present when igniting fireworks.
- Submerge used fireworks in a bucket of water and keep a hose nearby.
- Use fireworks only outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees.
- Ignite one firework at a time and maintain a safe distance.
- Avoid experimenting with or creating homemade fireworks.
- Do not re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.
- Keep fireworks away from small children.
- Do not carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Avoid shooting fireworks in metal or glass containers.
- Follow local laws regarding firework use and consult fire protection officials to ensure compliance.
Some municipalities prohibit the use of fireworks within city limits. The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) conducts pyrotechnic inspections for displays on state-owned properties. Companies must apply for permits, and the SFMO ensures compliance with insurance, technician qualifications, and local safety standards. Deputies are required to be present during the display and for cleanup afterward.
