Fireworks Safety: Keeping Your Community Safe This Summer 

As summer approaches, many communities prepare fireworks displays to celebrate the season’s biggest holidays — from Independence Day to local festivals and family gatherings. While fireworks can be a beautiful part of community celebrations, they also come with serious safety risks that municipalities must be prepared to address. 

At Capital Strategic Solutions, we work closely with municipalities to promote public safety and help ensure that celebrations remain enjoyable — and safe — for all. Here are key fireworks safety tips and resources your community can use to prepare for the season: 

The Risks of Fireworks 

Each year, fireworks cause thousands of injuries and fires across the country. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): 

• Over 10,000 fireworks-related injuries were treated in emergency rooms in 2023. 
• Most of these injuries occur in the weeks surrounding July 4th. 
• Common injuries include burns, eye injuries, and hand injuries. 
• Fireworks also contribute to thousands of fires annually, causing property damage and threatening public safety. 

Safety Messaging for Residents 

Municipal leaders play an essential role in educating the public. Consider sharing these important reminders with your residents: 

• Leave it to the professionals: Encourage residents to attend permitted public displays conducted by trained and licensed professionals. 
• Know your local laws: Remind residents of municipal and state regulations regarding consumer fireworks. 
• Keep children away: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers, which burn at approximately 2,000 degrees, can cause severe burns. 
• Have a water source nearby: A bucket of water or hose should always be on hand when using fireworks. 
• Dispose of fireworks safely: After the fireworks are completely spent, douse them with water before disposal to prevent fires. 

Municipal Preparedness Tips 

In addition to public education, municipalities can take proactive steps to minimize risks: 

• Review local ordinances: Ensure that fireworks regulations are up to date and clearly communicated. 
• Coordinate with public safety teams: Fire departments, police, and emergency medical services should review response plans and be prepared for increased call volume. 
• Promote safe public displays: Work with certified pyrotechnic professionals to organize permitted displays and ensure all required permits and safety measures are in place. 
• Utilize social media and local communication channels: Share timely safety messages leading up to holidays and during community events. 

Resources for Municipal Leaders 

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fireworks Safety Tips 

• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Fireworks Safety 

• National Safety Council Fireworks Safety 

Partnering with CSS 

At CSS, we’re committed to supporting municipal leaders with proactive communication strategies, emergency planning and public outreach. If your community needs assistance with: 

• Crafting fireworks safety communications 
• Developing public education campaigns 
• Enhancing emergency response coordination 

We’re here to help — Contact us today to learn how we can support your community’s public safety efforts this summer.