CPSC Urges Caution as Fireworks Injuries Spike for 250th Anniversary

Acting CPSC Chairman Peter A. Feldman emphasized that while fireworks are a staple of the holiday, they demand significant respect. Data from 2025 reveals that the 15-to-24 age demographic suffers the highest rate of injuries, with hands, fingers, and the head being the most common sites of trauma. Officials warn that devices tipping over or malfunctioning are frequent culprits, though even seemingly harmless sparklers present a major danger. Burning at temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, sparklers were responsible for roughly 1,300 injuries last year.

To mitigate risks, the commission advises sticking strictly to legal consumer fireworks purchased from reputable retailers, avoiding homemade or altered devices entirely. Safety experts recommend keeping a garden hose or bucket of water nearby at all times, never relighting "duds," and keeping children at a safe distance from all pyrotechnics. For those seeking the safest experience, the agency suggests skipping backyard displays in favor of professional community shows. Consumers who encounter mislabeled or suspicious products are encouraged to file reports through SaferProducts.gov to assist in federal enforcement efforts.