Each year, emergency departments in the United States treat approximately 7,000 patients for injuries caused by fireworks. Injuries from fireworks can range from burns to more serious medical problems like cuts and amputations. In severe cases, consequences from fireworks use can result in death.
Protect yourself and your family by following these guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
10 Tips for Safety Around Fireworks
The AAP continues to urge families NOT to buy fireworks for personal use. Keeping that in mind, the following are some safety tips to follow if you or your children are around fireworks.
- Never give fireworks to children.
- Always have a bucket of water and a charged water hose nearby.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
- Never bring pets to a fireworks display, even a small one.
- If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound.
- A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities.
- Never consume alcohol before or while setting off fireworks.
- Know your fireworks. Read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
- Dispose of fireworks by wetting them down. Place spent fireworks in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
[source: National Council on Fireworks Safety]
Fireworks Facts
- Sparklers burn at more than 1,000°F and account for 10 percent of fireworks-related injuries.
- In 2013, fireworks caused an estimated 15,600 reported fires in the U.S., including 1,400 structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outside and other fires.
- In 2014, U.S. hospital emergency rooms saw an estimated 10,500 people for fireworks-related injuries.
- Of all the types of fireworks, sparklers cause the most injuries.
4th of July Celebrations in Apex, NC
Apex residents don’t have to travel too far to see an impressive fireworks display or to enjoy 4th of July festivities. Take a look at the following, family-friendly activities taking place close to home.
Town of Cary July 4th Celebration
Time: 3 pm – 10 pm
Address: Koka Booth Ampitheatre | 8003 Regency Pkwy., Cary, NC 27518
Cost: FREE
Details: Beginning at 3pm, you’ll be able to enjoy family-friendly activities all day long, including rides and games, a venue-wide scavenger hunt, watermelon eating contests and even a 50-foot Ferris wheel!
The Cary Town Band kicks off music at 5:45pm, followed by the North Carolina Symphony and fireworks to cap the evening.
Visit here to view the schedule of events.
Apex Olde Fashioned 4th of July
Time: 9 am-1 pm
Address: Downtown Apex, Apex, NC 27502
Phone: 919-249-1120
Details: Kids 12 & under may participate in Uncle Sam’s Parade of Wheels down Salem Street.
Decorate your bike, wagon, tricycle, or other non-motorized vehicle in patriotic colors to celebrate our nation’s independence.
The Parade starts at the corner of Salem & Chatham Streets at noon, so be sure to line up early to save your place.
Festivities will end with the Apex Fire Department’s Splash Down! Please note: Helmets are required for the Parade of Wheels.
Visit here to view the schedule of events.
Find an Emergency Department Near You
Of course even if you leave the fireworks to the professionals, accidents can happen. In the event of an emergency, it’s a good idea to know where your community’s emergency departments are located. WakeMed proudly offers a full service, 24/7 emergency department in Apex and a full service, 24/7 emergency department in Cary.
If you find yourself out and about in Wake County on the 4th of July, we also have other five other emergency departments, ready to take care of you and your loved ones. Find the emergency department nearest you.
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