NFPA Warns Against Consumer Fireworks

Add Feedback

Share |

With the 4th of July fast approaching, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and its Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks are once again urging Americans not to use consumer fireworks. The warnings came at a press conference with the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal's office featuring Jonathan Jackson, a victim of a childhood fireworks injury, according to Lorraine Carli of the NFPA.

"The instant that bottle rocket exploded in my face, my life changed forever, and I am still discovering what that means as I encounter and overcome challenges each day," said Jackson, who was blinded in one eye by the blast. "When you use consumer fireworks, you put yourself and others at risk; it's not worth it." Jackson is from the Dallas-Ft. Worth area and is a recent graduate of Texas Christian University. He is also a contender for a spot on the U.S. Olympic track and field team in the 2012 games in the men's triple jump event, according to Carli.

"Each year, nearly 10,000 people are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries and many of these injuries go hand-in-hand with Fourth of July celebrations," said James M. Shannon, president of NFPA. "A visit to the emergency room is no way to celebrate the birth of our country and it is unacceptable that thousands of people are being injured by a product that is legal in most states. We suggest attending public fireworks displays put on by trained professionals."

Only five states ban all consumer fireworks, they are: Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.

According to a newly-released report from the NFPA, in 2006 fireworks caused an estimated 32,600 reported fires, including 1,700 total structure fires, 600 vehicle fires, and 30,300 outdoor and other fires.

The NFPA also reports that more U.S. fires are reported on Independence Day that on any other day in a typical year. Fireworks account for half of those fires.

The Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks is a national group of health and safety organizations, coordinated and co-founded by the NFPA, that is taking a stand against the use of consumer fireworks. Other members include the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society for Surgery of the Hand, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery, Center for Injury Research & Policy, Emergency Nurses Association, Fire Department Safety Officers Association, International Association of Arson Investigators, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Fire Fighters, International Fire Marshals Association, Metropolitan Fire Chiefs, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of School Nurses, National Association of State Fire Marshals, and Prevent Blindness America.

More information is available at www.nfpa.org/fireworks.