Serious fireworks-related injuries from June 1 to July 31, 2016 in Washington State rose by 40% according to the latest figures from the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The majority of these injuries occurred on the Fourth of July. This year, fireworks injuries resulted in amputations, first, second, third degree burns and hearing and eyesight loss. 16% of those injured were due to alcohol or drug impairment.
In addition, fireworks-related-fires resulted in an estimated nearly $200,000 in property loss during the same period. There were 67 fireworks-related fires with 62% of them occurring on the Fourth of July holiday.
“Any injury or fire due to fireworks is too many,” says State Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy.
“The best way to prevent fireworks-related injuries and fires is to attend a licensed, public fireworks display,”