Nearly 11,000 people were treated in U.S. emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in 2005, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The perception that some fireworks, such as sparklers, are safe is incorrect. Sparklers were associated with more than half of the estimated injuries among children under age 5 in 2005, CPSC says.

Ohio law permits sparklers and other types of novelties. To view lists of permitted materials, view the Ohio State Fire Marshal - 2009 Fireworks Redbook. 

Sparklers can burn at more than 1,000°F and set clothes on fire, while firecrackers can injure the hands or face if they explode at nearby. Children are often excited and curious around fireworks, and this can increase their chances of being injured.

If you purchase sparklers for children, follow these guidelines from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:

• Obey the local laws and use common sense.
• Always read and follow instructions. Always have an adult present.
• Keep burning sparklers away from clothing and flammable objects.
• Use sparklers only outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles.
• Light only one sparkler at a time.
• Alcohol, fireworks and sparklers do not mix. Be responsible.
• Do not point or throw sparklers at another person.
• Children under the age of 12 should not handle sparklers.
• When finished, place used sparklers in a bucket of water.

The U.S. National Fire Protection Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly recommend that fireworks be used only by professionals. The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals.

More information about Ohio’s and surrounding states’ laws governing the use of fireworks is available from the National Council on Fireworks Safety.  

Resources

Ohio State Fire Marshal - 2009 Fireworks Redbook (Ohio-specific information)

Consumer Products Safety Commission – Fireworks Annual Report

National Council on Fireworks Safety Test and Answers