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Fireworks and your health

Blue and gold fireworks burst in the sky over the water.

June 29, 2026—Nothing says Independence Day like watching fireworks soar into the evening sky. But as you prepare to enjoy this Fourth of July celebration, it's worth considering some of the potential health and safety hazards for yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors.

Here are three fireworks-related risks to be mindful of, along with some practical pointers you can use to safeguard your well-being.

Fireworks are dangerous to light yourself

Fireworks cause thousands of burns and other injuries each year, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports.

The risk: A fireworks mishap can quickly turn a celebration into a trip to the emergency room.

What you can do: It's best to leave fireworks to the pros. If you do decide to set them off yourself, consider these tips from CPSC and other experts.

  • Light fireworks one at a time—and then step back.
  • Make sure everyone is out of range.
  • Don't let kids light or play with fireworks, not even sparklers.
  • If a firework fails to ignite, don't try to relight it. Douse it with water instead.

Fireworks can cause fires and unhealthy air

In a typical year, fireworks spark thousands of blazes that damage cars, structures and other property, notes the National Fire Protection Association. They also release smoke that contains harmful particles, gases and metals, says the American Lung Association (ALA).

The risk: Fires can cause serious injuries and property damage. Breathing smoke and chemicals from a fireworks event (or a fire) can be bad for your lungs.

What you can do: Take steps to help prevent fires and minimize your exposure to air pollutants. Start with these tips, based on advice from the ALA and CPSC.

  • Check for and follow any fireworks bans in your area.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a hose handy.
  • Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from homes or other flammables.
  • Try to stay upwind of fireworks, so their smoke and byproducts won't drift your way.Check out these additional tips for coping with smoke.

Fireworks can be a trauma reminder

The sights, sounds and smells of a fireworks display can remind people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) of combat, gun violence or other traumatic events.

The risk: If you've gone through a traumatic event, you could experience symptoms, such as feeling on edge or emotionally numb or as though you're reliving the traumatic event.

What you can do: If you'll be attending a fireworks celebration and you're concerned it might distress you, consider asking someone close to you to come along, suggests the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You may want to ask a healthcare provider about ways to manage these situations, such as by box breathing.

If you are not distressed by fireworks but someone you care about is, ask them how you can support them.Check out these tips to help someone through a panic attack.

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