American Burn Association Urges Fireworks Safety Ahead of Fourth of July Celebrations
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
In this article, you’ll learn:
Why fireworks remain a leading cause of preventable burn injuries during the Fourth of July holiday period
What clinical data show about the severity and patterns of fireworks-related injuries treated in burn centers
How coordinated prevention efforts are helping reduce seasonal burn injuries across communities
As communities across the United States prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Fourth of July, the American Burn Association (ABA) is reminding the public that fireworks remain a significant and preventable cause of burn injuries during the summer season.
Burn centers nationwide consistently report a predictable increase in emergency visits during the Independence Day holiday period. These injuries often occur suddenly, affect both users and bystanders, and can result in severe burns requiring surgical treatment, hospitalization, or long-term functional recovery.
Fireworks Injuries Follow a Predictable Seasonal Pattern
Each year, burn centers see a sharp rise in fireworks-related injuries around the Fourth of July. These cases frequently involve burns to the hands and upper extremities and can occur within seconds of ignition.
Many patients treated in burn centers are not the individuals lighting fireworks but bystanders or children nearby at the time of injury. Even seemingly minor incidents can result in complex injuries requiring surgical intervention or reconstructive procedures.
Clinical findings show that fireworks injuries often involve small total body surface area burns, yet still require surgical treatment due to depth, location, or functional impact.
A study published in the Journal of Burn Care & Research (JBCR) found that approximately half of patients with fireworks-related burns required surgical treatment. The hand was the most commonly affected area, accounting for nearly 80% of cases, highlighting the functional impact these injuries can have on recovery and daily life. (JBCR, DOI: 10.1093/jbcr/iraa024.333 ).
Prevention Efforts and Community Coordination
Recent research highlights the value of coordinated prevention strategies in reducing seasonal burn injuries.
Using the ABA’s Burn Prevention Framework, a multi-organization initiative launched in 2024 brought together hospitals, fire services, schools, and community partners to strengthen prevention messaging during peak fireworks season.
Over a two-year period, the number of participating organizations increased from 15 to 22, alongside expanded community outreach and reporting. During this time, reported injuries decreased from 66 to 44, suggesting that coordinated, mechanism-specific prevention efforts may help reduce the burden of fireworks-related burns. (Journal of Burn Care & Research, https://doi.org/10.1093/jbcr/irag033.450 )
These findings reinforce the importance of structured, community-based prevention approaches during predictable seasonal risk periods.
Sparklers and Household Fireworks Still Pose Significant Risk
While large aerial fireworks are often associated with serious injury, data consistently show that sparklers and smaller fireworks also contribute to a significant proportion of pediatric burn injuries.
Sparklers can reach temperatures near 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to cause severe burns in seconds, particularly among children.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, these risks underscore the importance of supervision, safe handling practices, and awareness of hazards even with commonly used consumer fireworks.
Understanding Burn Injury Trends
According to the ABA’s Burn Injury Summary Report, nearly half of burn injuries are caused by flame or flash burns, and the vast majority are accidental.
These trends reinforce a consistent message: most burn injuries are preventable, particularly during holidays when fireworks use increases.
What to Do if a Burn Occurs
If a burn injury occurs:
Cool the burn with clean, cool (not cold) running water for 20 minutes
Remove rings, watches, or tight items before swelling begins
Cover the burn loosely with a clean, dry cloth
Seek immediate medical attention for burns involving the face, hands, feet, genital area, major joints, or burns that appear deep or extensive
Prompt first aid and timely medical care can significantly improve outcomes.
Burn Prevention and First Aid Resources
For additional burn prevention guidance and first-aid information, visit:
Fireworks Safety for All – Comprehensive guidance on reducing fireworks-related burn risks during holiday celebrations
Burn First Aid – Step-by-step instructions for immediate care following a burn injury
Burn Prevention Resources – Educational materials focused on preventing common burn injuries at home and in the community
Patient Education Burn Resources – Tools and guidance designed for patients, families, and caregivers managing burn recovery and safety
Expert Perspective
Burn surgeons across the country continue to see a predictable surge in fireworks-related injuries each year during the Fourth of July holiday period.
“Every year, burn teams see a predictable surge in fireworks-related injuries during the Fourth of July period. As communities mark the 250th anniversary of Independence Day, we want celebrations to remain both safe and memorable.”
— David Harrington, MD, FACS, burn center director, Rhode Island Hospital, and president-elect, American Burn Association
“Prevention works when communities align around a shared message and act early. Coordinated efforts across hospitals, fire services, and public education programs are showing a measurable impact in reducing seasonal burn injuries.
— David Harrington, MD, FACS, burn center director, Rhode Island Hospital, and president-elect, American Burn Association
About the American Burn Association
The American Burn Association (ABA) is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by burn injuries through advocacy, education, research, and prevention. Founded in 1967, the ABA supports burn care professionals and works to advance the quality of burn care worldwide.