Colon cancer patient Tiffany with navigator Jill Geske

Use Caution with Fireworks

Grand Island city code permits the use of fireworks beginning June 28th, at 8:00 AM.

As we enter into a week of celebration, Grand Island Regional Medical Center urges caution with fireworks.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), a study of fireworks-related injuries in 2024 revealed the following observations:

  • In 2024, there were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths, most involving misuse and device misfire/malfunctions.

  • An estimated 14,700 people sustained injuries from fireworks, a significant increase of about 38% in deaths and 52% in injuries compared to 2023.

  • There were an estimated 1,700 emergency room treated injuries last year from sparklers.

  • Adults ages 25 to 44 accounted for the largest share of reported injuries at 32%. This group was followed by people ages 15 to 24 at 24%.

  • The most frequently injured body parts were hands and fingers. The head, face and ears followed with 22%.

  • Burns were the most common injury, accounting for 37% of all emergency room visits. 

GIRMC would like to remind our community and region of the following tips recommended by the CPSC to avoid injury:

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.

  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.

  • Only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.

  • Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move away quickly.

  • Never try to re-light or handle fireworks that have not ignited fully.

  • Follow all instructions and warnings on fireworks and never hold them in hand unless instructions specify to do so.

If you experience an injury relating to fireworks, we are ready to care for you in our Emergency Department. Our Emergency Department is located at 3533 Prairieview Street in Grand Island. Our emergency entrance is located on the west side of our facility, look for the red flags and illuminated EMERGENCY sign.

SOURCE: Consumer Product Safety Commission