Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition that many families look forward to, but they also come with real safety risks. BayCare Kids Wellness and Safety Specialist Gina Baez encouraged parents and caregivers to take extra precautions when celebrating with fireworks at home during the upcoming holiday weekend.
“Fireworks can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially for children. Even items that seem harmless, like sparklers, burn at extremely high temperatures and can quickly lead to serious injuries,” said Baez.
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, more than 3,000 children under the age of 15 are treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries each year. Younger children are especially vulnerable — those between ages 5 and 9 experience the highest number of injuries overall, while children under 5 are most often hurt by sparklers. Firecrackers and bottle rockets are among the most common causes of injuries in kids.
While sparklers may seem like a safer alternative, Baez reminded families that they can reach temperatures of up to 1,200°F — hot enough to cause severe burns. For little ones, she recommended safer options like glow sticks or bubbles, which still create a fun and festive experience without the risk.
Baez also noted that the loud pops and bright flashes can be startling for young children, especially those experiencing fireworks for the first time. Talking with children ahead of time about what to expect can help make the experience less overwhelming.
If you’re planning to use fireworks at home, keep these safety tips in mind:
Most importantly, children should always be closely supervised around fireworks. Baez emphasized that the safest option is to leave fireworks to the professionals and attend a community display instead.
For more tips on keeping your children safe and healthy, visit BayCare Kids.
