The Fourth of July marks an annual time of national celebration. However, this beloved holiday is also one of the most dangerous times of the year, notably in New York and California. The combination of increased travel, festive gatherings, distractions, fireworks, and alcohol consumption creates a heightened risk of accidents nationwide. According to data from the NHTSA, both California and Fireworks traditionally are used in the United States to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that 8500 persons in the United States are treated in emergency departments each year for fireworks-related injuries (1). Of all fireworks-related injuries, 70%--75% occur during a 30-day period that surrounds the July 4th holiday (June Insights into Fourth of July festivities reveal how fireworks, alcohol use, and other safety concerns influence how people celebrate and stay protected. Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks - devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death. Yes, the Fourth of July is a time for fun with family and friends. But, with more fun comes more risk of injury. Nearly, 10,000 people in the United States visited the ER last year for firework More than 70 million Americans are expected to travel around the Fourth of July holiday, with traffic and accidents likely to spike as a result. And while injuries have decreased since 2020, Medical experts warn about July 4th health hazards, as ERs see peak visits from fireworks injuries, alcohol accidents, burns, heat exhaustion and drowning. Firework injuries are being more common, which include burns and lacerations. Here are ways to stay safe and avoid a visit to the ER on July 4th. Did you know that the Fourth of July ranks first for the day of the year with the most car accidents? Let's look at the facts & statistics. An estimated 14,700 people were injured by fireworks last year – a sharp increase of about 38% in deaths and about 52% in injuries respectively compared to 2023. There were an estimated 1,700 emergency room treated injuries in 2024 involving sparklers. Every year before the Fourth of July, doctors and firefighters warn about the dangers of fireworks. And every year, the number of fireworks injuries grows. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Academy of Pediatrics want that to change. In the past 15 years, fireworks-related injuries increased 25%, the CPSC states in a new report. At least nine people died in “The data is clear: Independence Day consistently ranks as the deadliest day of the year for traffic fatalities, and one of the most dangerous for injuries overall. From over 160 crash deaths on July 4th alone to thousands of ER visits from fireworks and grill accidents, the risks are real and preventable. CPSC Estimate: 14,700 injuries, 11 Deaths in 2024 WASHINGTON, D.C. – As July 4th celebrations near, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging the public to prioritize fireworks safety. Mishandling fireworks can turn celebration into tragedy. In 2024, there were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths, most involving misuse and device misfire/malfunctions. An estimated 14,700 Independence Day celebrations bring on a surge of cookouts and fireworks, and with it a troubling rise of firework-related injuries. Injuries from fireworks increased by 52%, from 9,700 in 2023 to WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Safety Council estimates 437 people may die in preventable traffic crashes during the 2025 Independence Day holiday period, from 6 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, July 3, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 6. The July 4 holiday period is one of the most dangerous times of the year on U.S. roadways. Data shows 38% of fatalities during Independence Day weekend involve A sharp spike in the number of fireworks-related injuries last year sparked renewed warnings from the nation's top consumer safety watchdog as fireworks usage increases around July 4th revelry July 4th is a day to celebrate freedom, but it should also be a time to prioritize safety. The statistics are clear: Independence Day leads the nation in preventable injuries and fatalities across multiple categories. Medical experts warn about July 4th health hazards, as ERs see peak visits from fireworks injuries, alcohol accidents, burns, heat exhaustion and drowning. CPSC Releases New Data on Fireworks-Related Injuries and Deaths WASHINGTON, D.C. – It’s that time of year when Americans everywhere will be celebrating the Fourth of July holiday with family, friends and fireworks. A new report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights the hazards posed by consumer use of fireworks. CPSC is raising awareness and sharing safety tips Independence Day Holiday Period Estimate for 2025 National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 437 people may die on U.S. roads this Independence Day holiday period. Holidays traditionally are a time of travel for families across the United States. Many choose car travel, which has the highest fatality rate of any major form of motorized transportation based on fatalities per passenger mile
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