According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 10,000 people each year are treated for injuries due to the mishandling of consumer fireworks. 

The City of Broken Arrow would like to encourage residents to safely handle fireworks on Independence Day. Oklahoma summers are typically dry, hot seasons that build higher risk for firework users. Follow these tips to prevent injuries to yourself and others, as well as fire. 

Tips for fireworks safety:

  • Only discharge fireworks on a noncombustible surface. 
  • Keep an extinguishing source close by. A bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher are good sources to have on hand in case of fire.
  • Keep fireworks in the hands of adults. Never allow children to handle or ignite the fireworks and never hold lit fireworks in your own hands.
  • Spent fireworks should soak in water for at least an hour before discarding.
  • Don’t try to re-ignite or handle a defective firework.
  • Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone. 
  • Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  • Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

Check out the U.S. Fire Administration and these other resources for more fireworks safety information: