If fireworks are included with your backyard Independence Day celebration this weekend, officials urge safety first.
In 2025, there were 15 reported fireworks-related deaths, most involving misuse and device misfire/malfunctions, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. An estimated 13,000 people were injured by fireworks last year. There were an estimated 1,300 emergency room treated injuries in 2025 involving sparklers.
The commission said the 15 to 24 age group accounted for the largest number of reported injuries. The most frequently injured body parts were hands and fingers (35%) and head, face, and ears (22%). Burns were the most common injury, making up 38% of all emergency room visits.
“Most fire fatalities continue to occur in homes, and many fires begin with preventable actions,” said South Carolina State Fire Marshal Jonathan Jones in a news release.
“Fireworks can be an enjoyable part of celebrating the Fourth of July, but they must be used responsibly. A few simple safety precautions can protect your family, your home, and your community.”
The South Carolina State Fire Marshal said reducing preventable fires and protecting lives is a major focus of the organization and aligns the division’s prevention and community risk reduction efforts with its mission: to be the focal point for service and support
to save lives and property.
Here are a few safety tips.
- Observe local laws. If unsure whether fireworks are legal in your jurisdiction, check with local officials.
- Observe local weather conditions. Dry weather can increase the risk of wildfire and structure fires.
- Buy fireworks only from permitted fireworks retailers.
- Always have an adult present when using fireworks.
- Read and follow all manufacturer instructions carefully.
- Only use fireworks outdoors and away from homes, vehicles, dry grass, and trees.
- Ensure people and pets are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Keep a garden hose and a bucket of water nearby. Place used fireworks in water before disposal.
South Carolina law prohibits fireworks from being sold to anyone younger than 16 years old. In Georgia, people must be older than 18 to use fireworks. - The Georgia Fireworks Law (O.C.G.A. 25-10-2) , allows fireworks until 11:59 p.m. on July 3 and 4 regardless of local noise ordinances
- Fireworks cannot be used on public roads or highways in Georgia or within 100 yards of a hospital, nursing home or gas station.
Also, according to the National Safety Council, sparklers might not be as safe as you think for small children.
“Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet,” the NSC website said.
Alternatives to sparklers are glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.
And the safest way to enjoy fireworks is at a professional public display. Go here to find one in the Augusta area.
“There is no safer way to enjoy fireworks than by attending a permitted public display conducted by trained
professionals,” Jones said. “Professional displays allow families to celebrate safely while reducing the risk of
injury and fire in neighborhoods across our state.”
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years. She’s won multiple Georgia Press Association awards, is the recipient of the 2018 Greater Augusta Arts Council’s media award and was named best local writer by readers of Augusta Magazine in 2024 and 2025. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
