Fireworks are a popular part of many summer celebrations, especially around the Fourth of July. They bring color, excitement and tradition to backyard gatherings, neighborhood events and family get-togethers across West Tennessee.
But as fun as fireworks can be, they can also be dangerous when they are not handled properly. Burns, eye injuries, hand injuries and accidental fires can happen quickly, especially when children are nearby or when fireworks are used too close to people, homes or dry outdoor areas.
Before you celebrate, take a few minutes to review these fireworks safety reminders to help protect yourself, your family and your community.
Keep Fireworks Away from Young Children
Young children should never play with or ignite fireworks. Even sparklers, which many people think of as harmless, can burn at extremely high temperatures and cause serious injuries.
If children are present, make sure they are standing at a safe distance and are closely supervised by an adult at all times.
Always Have Adult Supervision
Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults. Never allow children or teens to light fireworks, pick them up after they have been lit or stand too close to the area where fireworks are being used.
Designate one adult to manage the fireworks and make sure everyone else stays back.
Light Fireworks Safely
When lighting fireworks, never place your face, hands or any part of your body directly over the device. Light one firework at a time, then move back quickly to a safe distance.
Never try to relight a firework that did not fully ignite. Wait, then soak it with water before throwing it away.
Keep Water Nearby
Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose close in case of fire or another emergency. Once fireworks have finished burning, soak the used devices with plenty of water before placing them in the trash.
This simple step can help prevent trash fires and other accidents.
Never Point Fireworks at Another Person
Fireworks should never be pointed, thrown or aimed toward another person, animal, home, vehicle or dry area. Even small fireworks can cause serious harm if they go in the wrong direction.
Choose a clear, open area away from people, buildings and anything that could catch fire.
Be Careful with Storage and Packaging
Do not carry fireworks in your pocket, and never shoot them from metal or glass containers. Also, avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper, which may be a sign that they were made for professional displays and could be more dangerous for consumers.
Always purchase fireworks from a trusted source and follow the directions on the label.
Know the Laws in Your Area
Before buying or using fireworks, make sure they are legal where you live. Local rules can vary, and following them helps keep everyone safer.
Celebrate Safely
Holiday weekends are meant for fun, family and memories, not preventable injuries. Taking a few extra precautions can help keep the celebration safe for everyone. If a fireworks injury does happen, seek medical care right away. For serious burns, eye injuries, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding or any life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Celebrate big, West Tennessee, but choose safety first.
Updated: June 24, 2026
