July 2023 PSA: Make Sure Your Celebrations are Safe with Fireworks Safety

Fourth of July and other summer celebrations often include dazzling fireworks, but these pyrotechnics can cause serious injuries or death.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report for 2022, while not yet complete, shows 11 non-occupational, fireworks-related deaths and an estimated 10,200 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments.

Which fireworks are legal depends on state law.  In Minnesota the easiest way to remember which are NOT legal is “if it flies or explodes, it's illegal.”  That includes bottle rockets, firecrackers, and roman candles.  Here is a complete rundown of Minnesota fireworks law.

The best way to avoid potential fireworks injuries is by attending a professional, public fireworks show rather than purchasing fireworks for home use.

For a comprehensive list of fireworks safety rules and what to do in the event of an eye injury we recommend this resource from the American Academy of Ophthalmology: Fireworks Eye Safety This site also has a link to an important video: The Blinding Truth About Fireworks

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