Each Fourth of July, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks, according to the National Fire Protection Association Research, Data and Analytics Division.

Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires and even death. Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 16,900 outside and other fires.

The City of Washington Police and Fire Services strongly recommends that you leave fireworks to the professionals. We do not endorse the use of consumer fireworks under any conditions. We suggest that you attend one of the local fireworks displays and have a safe Fourth of July celebration.