OFFICE OF THE FIRE MARSHAL - SAFETY BULLETIN

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Middleton Rural Fire District - Fireworks Safety Reminder – Celebrate Responsibly This Fourth of July 

Firework-related injuries, fatalities, and property damage continue to be a serious concern across the nation—especially during the Fourth of July holiday. As we prepare for celebrations, it is critical to prioritize safety to protect our families, neighborhoods, and first responders.

Injury Statistics:
An estimated 14,700 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms in 2024 due to fireworks-related injuries—an increase of approximately 52% from the previous year.

Fatalities:
11 deaths were reported nationwide from fireworks incidents in 2024.

Common Injuries:
Burns remain the most common fireworks-related injury, accounting for approximately 37% of emergency room visits. Hands and fingers account for approximately 36% of injuries, while injuries to the head, face, and ears account for another 22%.

Youth and Young Adults at Risk:
Young people continue to face elevated risk, with individuals under age 25 accounting for a significant portion of fireworks-related injuries each year.

Sparkler Danger:
Approximately 1,700 emergency room-treated injuries involved sparklers alone in 2024. Sparklers can burn at temperatures approaching 2,000°F, hot enough to melt some metals.

Fire Impact:
Fireworks continue to start thousands of fires nationwide annually, including structure fires, vehicle fires, and vegetation fires.

Adult Supervision Required
Never allow children to handle fireworks. Always have a responsible adult in charge.

Know the Law

• Aerial fireworks are prohibited within the City of Star, City of Middleton, City of Eagle, Ada County, Canyon County, and Gem County.

• The use of legal non-aerial common fireworks is permitted June 23 through July 5 within Middleton Rural Fire District jurisdictions unless otherwise restricted.

• Local noise ordinances remain in effect.

Use Legal Fireworks Only
Purchase fireworks only from licensed vendors and carefully follow all manufacturer instructions.

Protect Your Eyes
Safety glasses are strongly recommended while using fireworks.

Light One at a Time
Never attempt to relight a “dud” firework. Wait several minutes and soak it thoroughly with water.

Maintain Distance
Light fireworks and move away immediately.

Choose a Safe Area
Use fireworks only in open spaces and keep away from homes, vehicles, dry grass, and combustible materials.

Be Ready for Fire
Always have a hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher readily available.

Cool and Soak Before Disposal
Fully soak used fireworks before disposal and keep trash containers away from buildings.

Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol and fireworks are a dangerous combination. Leave fireworks handling to a sober adult.

Attend Professional Displays
Reduce neighborhood risk and enjoy the holiday by attending a professionally managed public display.

By practicing safety and following local laws, we can celebrate Independence Day safely and responsibly. Let’s work together to keep our communities safe, festive, and fire-free.