American Pyrotechnics Association Urges Fireworks Safety on Independence Day

From the American Pyrotechnics Association:

Fireworks are as American as baseball, hotdogs and apple pie. Since the founding of our country, families have taken to their backyards and neighborhoods, or have gathered at community events to use fireworks in celebration of Independence Day and to commemorate special events.

The popularity of consumer fireworks continues to grow each year. According to the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), consumer fireworks retailers have reported that sales will increase by approximately $50 million from 2015 as families begin preparing for Fourth of July celebrations.

"Our members companies are reporting strong consumer fireworks sales numbers and we predict revenues could exceed $800 million for the 2016 fireworks season," said Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director of the APA.

For example, in 2015, American consumers spent approximately $755 million on fireworks for the Fourth of July, a $60 million increase since that of 2014.

Economic Benefits to Fireworks

States experience great economic benefits from the sale of fireworks. States with anti-fireworks laws lose tax revenues to neighboring states where the sale of fireworks is legal. Keeping fireworks illegal in certain states hampers job creation and hurts charitable organizations that use the sale of fireworks each year for fundraising.

Since 2011, seven states — Kentucky, Utah, New Hampshire, Michigan, New York, Georgia and West Virginia — have lifted restrictions on the sale of most types of consumer fireworks in order to reap the significant tax revenues. The tens of millions of dollars in revenue loss for states with fireworks bans has led many, including New York, to change their stance.

In 2015, it was estimated that the State of New York would collect an additional $2 million in tax revenues during its first year of fireworks sales.

Viral Videos and Fireworks Do Not Mix

While fireworks have historically been a family activity free from the distractions of technology, the APA is seeing a trend in individuals performing extreme stunts with fireworks and posting the film footage online to gain viral views.

"While the number of fireworks-related injuries and fires has declined significantly, safety must always be the number one priority when using fireworks. Fireworks and extreme stunts do not mix," said Heckman. "Fireworks, when used appropriately and in accordance with legal safety standards, are a safe, enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment experience."

Safety Tips

The APA encourages consumers to follow the following safety tips before planning your Independence Day celebrations.

• Before purchasing fireworks, check your local regulations regarding fireworks use. For instance, many communities do not allow fireworks to be used inside city limits and during burn bans, and some communities have age limits for purchasing fireworks.Purchase fireworks from an accredited company that sells legal fireworks. For more information on your state's firework control laws, visit APA's website here.
• After purchasing fireworks, always store them in a cool, dry place.
• Determine a safe location for use in an open area with a connected hose, bucket of water, or other water source nearby.
• Make sure to follow all instructions on the packaging for safe use.
• Never let children handle or operate fireworks.
• After using your fireworks, allow used fireworks to stand for at least 20 minutes, then soak the remaining tubes and materials in water, drain, place in a plastic bag and dispose outside in a covered trash can.
• Be thoughtful to those among us – such as military service men and women and even pets and other animals – that may have sensitivities to the loud noises fireworks can generate. For example, pets should be kept away from noise and fireworks displays and packages.

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