The Fourth of July is one of the most exciting holidays of the summer. Backyard barbecues, community celebrations, and fireworks are traditions many families look forward to each year. While fireworks can be a fun way to celebrate, they also pose significant risks—not only for burns and injuries but also for starting devastating wildfires.
This year, fire danger across Utah is exceptionally high. Because of the ongoing wildfire conditions, many jurisdictions have restricted or prohibited personal fireworks. Governor Spencer Cox recently issued emergency restrictions that allow cities and counties to ban fireworks where conditions are unsafe, and many communities have done exactly that. Before purchasing or lighting fireworks, check your local city’s regulations to ensure they are currently permitted in your area. Restrictions vary by municipality and may change based on fire conditions.
Fireworks Safety Tips
1. Know Your Local Fireworks Laws
Not every city or county allows fireworks. Even if fireworks are sold nearby, they may not be legal where you live. Always verify your local restrictions before celebrating.
2. Leave Fireworks to the Adults
Children should never handle fireworks. Even sparklers can burn at temperatures exceeding 2,000°F—hot enough to cause severe burns in just seconds.
3. Keep Water Nearby
Have a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher readily available before lighting any fireworks. If something ignites unexpectedly, immediate action can prevent a small incident from becoming a major emergency.
4. Never Relight a “Dud”
If a firework fails to ignite, never attempt to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly in water before disposing of it according to local guidelines.
5. Stay Away from Dry Vegetation
Avoid lighting fireworks near dry grass, brush, fields, or open spaces. One stray spark is all it takes to start a wildfire during Utah’s dry summer months.
6. Protect Your Eyes
Spectators should maintain a safe distance from fireworks and never lean over them while lighting. Eye injuries are among the most serious fireworks-related emergencies treated each year.
7. Keep Pets Indoors
Fireworks can cause extreme anxiety for pets. Keep animals indoors in a secure, quiet environment during neighborhood celebrations.
8. Never Mix Fireworks and Alcohol
Alcohol slows reaction time and impairs judgment, increasing the likelihood of serious accidents. Designate one sober adult to handle fireworks if they are legal in your area.
Common Firework Injuries We See
Every Independence Day, emergency responders treat injuries including:
- Burns to the hands and face
- Eye injuries
- Finger and hand trauma
- Falls while running from fireworks
- Smoke inhalation
- Hearing damage
- Brush and grass fires
Many of these injuries are entirely preventable with proper precautions.
Consider Attending a Professional Fireworks Show
Professional displays are conducted by trained technicians under controlled conditions and are significantly safer than consumer fireworks. Attending a community fireworks show is an excellent way to celebrate while reducing the risk of injury and wildfire.
Have a Safe and Happy Fourth of July
At Event Medical Staffing, our EMTs proudly provide on-site medical coverage for festivals, concerts, races, rodeos, community celebrations, and other special events throughout Utah. While we hope your holiday is filled with nothing but great memories, we’re always prepared to respond when emergencies happen.
From all of us at Event Medical Staffing, have a safe, enjoyable, and responsible Fourth of July!