Fourth of July fireworks safety tips for kids

Fourth of July fireworks safety tips for kids

Published on July 01, 2026

The Fourth of July is a time for backyard barbecues, neighborhood gatherings and dazzling fireworks displays. But it can also be one of the busiest holidays for emergency departments.

According to Daniel Guzman, M.D., a pediatric emergency medicine physician with Cook Children's Health Care System, children are treated in emergency departments every year for fireworks-related injuries, including burns, eye trauma and hand injuries. While many families associate these injuries with the person lighting the fireworks, children and other bystanders can also be at risk.

Although fireworks are a beloved Fourth of July tradition, Cook Children's Health Care System encourages families to celebrate safely and understand the risks fireworks can pose to children.

What type of fireworks injuries do children often experience?

Fireworks can cause serious injuries in a matter of seconds. Even legal consumer fireworks can burn at temperatures high enough to cause severe skin damage.

Some of the most common fireworks-related injuries include:

• Burns to the hands, fingers and face
• Eye injuries that can threaten vision
• Cuts and lacerations
• Hearing damage from loud explosions
• Falls or other injuries while running away from fireworks

Sparklers aren't as safe as they seem

Sparklers are often considered a safer option for young children, but they can be surprisingly dangerous.

"Many parents feel that sparklers are safe because they don't explode; however, the risk for burns is significant because they can reach 2000˚F (1093˚C), which is hot enough to melt some metals and cause severe burns," Dr. Guzman said.

Young children may accidentally touch the hot wire, wave sparklers near others or drop them onto bare feet. Using glow sticks instead of sparklers is a safer, brighter and more fun way to celebrate.

Fireworks safety tips for families

The safest way for children to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional public display rather than using fireworks at home, according to Dr. Guzman.

If your family chooses to use legal consumer fireworks, help reduce the risk by following these safety tips:

• Never allow young children to handle or light fireworks.
• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from fireworks.
• Ensure a sober adult supervises all fireworks.
• Read and follow all instructions on the packaging.
• Never relight a firework that doesn't ignite properly.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
• Never point or throw fireworks toward another person or pet.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away.
• Avoid homemade or illegal fireworks.

What should you do if a child is injured?

If a child is burned by fireworks, move them away from the source of the injury. Cool the burn with cool water as soon as possible, remove clothing from the burned areas and apply a gauze bandage or clean, soft cloth. Seek medical attention right away, especially for burns involving the face, hands, feet, joints or large areas of skin.

If a child has an eye injury, "do not rub the eye or attempt to wash it out; call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department," Dr. Guzman said.

Other Fourth of July safety reminders

Fireworks aren't the only risk during Independence Day celebrations. Parents can also help keep children safe by:

• Never leaving children unattended near pools, lakes or other bodies of water.
• Making sure children wear properly fitted life jackets when appropriate.
• Keeping kids hydrated, especially during extreme heat.
• Taking frequent breaks from outdoor activities.
• Applying and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day.
• Grilling outdoors only, keeping children at least 3 feet away from hot grills.
• Keeping matches, lighters and lighter fluid out of children's reach.

The Fourth of July should be remembered for time with family, not a trip to the emergency department. Choosing professional fireworks displays, supervising children and practicing simple safety precautions can help families enjoy a fun and memorable holiday while reducing the risk of serious injuries.

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• Community Safety