These tips help keep everyone safer while you're celebrating.

There's something exciting about fireworks on a warm summer night. They're loud, colorful and often part of holiday celebrations with family and friends. But fireworks can also be unpredictable and dangerous. Every year, thousands of people are treated for burns, eye injuries and other serious accidents due to fireworks and sparklers.

Many fireworks injuries can be prevented by taking a few safety precautions. Before you light any type of fireworks, here are some tips for keeping everyone safer:

• Always have a responsible adult supervise fireworks activities from start to finish.
• Light fireworks outdoors only and keep them away from homes, garages, vehicles, dry grass and trees.
• Have a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher nearby in case something catches fire.
• Only light one firework at a time to lower the chance of accidents.
• Never lean directly over fireworks while lighting them.
• After lighting a firework, move away quickly and keep a safe distance.
• Never point fireworks at another person, even as a joke.
• Don't hold lit fireworks in your hand unless the product is specifically designed for it.
• If a firework doesn't go off, don't try to relight it. Wait several minutes, then soak it in water before disposing of it.
• Avoid using fireworks while drinking alcohol or using drugs because impaired judgment increases the risk of injuries.
• Don't let young children handle or light fireworks, including sparklers. They can become hot enough to melt metal and are one of the most common causes of fireworks injuries in children. Consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks or LED wands.
• Soak all used fireworks in water before throwing them away to help prevent fires later.
• Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays because loud noises can cause fear, anxiety and panic.
• If someone burns their skin, cool the area with running water. Don't use ice, butter or ointments.
• If a firework injures the eye, don't rub it or try to remove debris. Get emergency medical care immediately.
• After the celebration is over, check the area carefully for small fires or hot debris that could still cause burns or start a fire.

Fireworks can be a fun part of summer traditions, but safety should always come first. Taking a few extra precautions can help protect you, as well as your family, friends, neighbors and pets, making the night more enjoyable for everyone. Also keep in mind that the safest choice is watching a professional fireworks display from a distance and leaving the lighting of fireworks to trained experts.

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_{Date Last Reviewed: May 20, 2026}

_{Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor}

_{Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD}

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