The report also finds that eight fireworks-related deaths were reported in 2023. Five were associated with misuse of fireworks, two were associated with device misfires or malfunctions, and one involved unknown circumstances.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends enjoying fireworks at professional shows rather than at home. AAP advises watching fireworks shows at a safe distance — at least 500 feet away from the launch site — to avoid injuries and protect children’s hearing. Fireworks and firecrackers can be as loud as 150 decibels, far louder than the 75 to 80 decibels considered safe.

AAP also advises against using sparklers. Although they do not explode, sparklers can burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt some metals. Contact with skin can cause third-degree burns. Sparks can also ignite clothing and cause eye injuries. In 2023, CPSC reported 700 emergency room-treated injuries associated with sparklers.

“Fireworks are best left to professionals,” said ACHI President and CEO Dr. Joe Thompson, a pediatrician. “The last place you want to be on July Fourth is in the emergency room with an injured child.”