Injuries from Fireworks

The upcoming holiday season is a time to celebrate our Nation’s birth but an increase in the number of firework related injuries in recent years has been often turning the good times into tragedy. In 2003 the number of injuries from reported consumer firework related injuries was listed at 9300, nationally, an increase of 500 from 2002. If this trend continues, 2005 could see more than 10,000 injuries with a majority of those occurring during the July 4th holiday weekend.

Most consumer fireworks are outlawed in Pennsylvania; the only ones that are allowed are sparklers and similar items. That doesn't stop people from purchasing them in other States and bringing them home to PA. Lavish displays take place in Reading neighborhoods which concerns City Fire Officials, numerous fires within the past 10 years have been blamed on illegal fireworks and property damage to residences has been substantial. One fire that occurred in the 100 block of Rose Street in 1998 caused over $100,000.00 in property damage and destroyed several homes.

Fire Officials are asking Citizens to attend one of the various legal displays that will be taking place on or around the holiday season and to leave the fireworks to the experts. A good rule to follow is that if it goes bang, it’s probably illegal in Pennsylvania.