Forgo Amateur Fireworks This July 4 - NYC Health

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Forgo Amateur Fireworks This July 4

In 2022, there were 38 fireworks-related emergency department visits compared to annual average of 31 between 2017-2021

Firework injuries in New York City in 2022 increased from the prior year

June 30, 2023 — As the Fourth of July approaches, the Health Department reminds all New Yorkers about the serious risks of fireworks. Across the country each year, more than 10,000 people visit emergency departments due to fireworks injuries. In New York City in 2022, nearly 40 people visited emergency departments due to fireworks injuries. Fireworks can cause severe burns and injuries to the eyes, head, face, hands, and more. Consumer fireworks are illegal in New York City.

“Every July 4th there are New Yorkers who end up in the hospital with serious injuries after setting off their own fireworks,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Our city has the most dazzling July 4th fireworks displays in the world – but these events are put on by technical experts. Keep yourself and loved ones safe by leaving the fireworks to the professionals.”

In 2022, there were 38 firework-related emergency department visits, compared with an annual average 31 from 2017 to 2021. In 2022, 65% of these visits were among males, and 21% were among people between the ages of 15-24 years old. However, firework-related ED visits occurred among all ages – from 2 to 85 years old. Seventy-six percent of these visits happened during the holiday week -- between July 2nd and July 8th.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Patrick Gallahue/Shari Logan

PressOffice@health.nyc.gov