Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

LAS VEGAS (June 27, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging residents to celebrate responsibly this Fourth of July by sharing essential fireworks safety tips to help prevent fires and injuries. While fireworks are a beloved tradition, they can pose serious risks if not handled properly, and the Red Cross is committed to helping families enjoy a safe and memorable holiday.

“Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate, but they can also be dangerous if safety precautions aren’t followed,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Every year, fireworks cause serious injuries and devastating fires in our community and across the country. By taking a few simple steps, families can reduce these risks and focus on enjoying the festivities.”

The Risks of Fireworks
In 2024, fireworks-related incidents resulted in 11 reported deaths nationwide, caused by misuse or device malfunctions. Additionally, over 14,700 people were injured by fireworks, with 1,700 of those injuries involving sparklers, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

“Behind these numbers are real people and families whose celebrations turned tragic, and many of these incidents could have been avoided,” said Flanigan. “Fireworks injuries don’t just happen on the Fourth of July, which is why it’s so important to always handle them responsibly and always prioritize safety.”

Fireworks are unpredictable and can explode unexpectedly or veer off course. Even legal fireworks can pose significant risks. For children under 5 years old, sparklers account for more than half of all reported injuries nationwide. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees, hot enough to melt some metals.

Fireworks are also responsible for nearly 20,000 fires annually across the U.S. “We’ve seen fireworks cause devastating home fires and life-altering injuries,” Flanigan said. “We strongly urge everyone to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy one of the many free public displays in Southern Nevada.”

Top Ten Fireworks Safety Tips

1. Know which fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
2. Never use professional-grade fireworks.
3. Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of fire or accidents.
4. Never allow young children to handle or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
5. Do not attempt to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in water and dispose of them safely.
6. Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
7. Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
8. Always supervise children when they are using sparklers.
9. Consider safe alternatives to fireworks, such as party poppers, bubbles, silly string or glow sticks.
10. Soak both used and unused fireworks in water for several hours before discarding them.

Local Impact and Red Cross Response
In the first week of July last year, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada responded to 20 single-family home fires and 7 multi-family home fires, assisting more than 125 people displaced by these incidents.

This year, even before fireworks season, the Red Cross has already responded to more than 130 home fires, providing support to over 575 people in need. “Firefighters in Southern Nevada are always ready to respond, and so is the Red Cross,” Flanigan said. “But by educating residents about the risks of fireworks, we hope to prevent those emergency calls this Fourth of July.”

Empowering Communities with Fire Safety
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada works year-round with fire departments and community partners to reduce home fire risks. Through the Home Fire Campaign, the Red Cross offers free smoke alarm installations and fire safety education. Last year, volunteers installed more than 1,750 free smoke alarms in Southern Nevada and provided families with essential fire safety information.

Residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations and fire safety consultations at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During these visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners provide personalized advice on fire prevention, evacuation plans and creating emergency plans that include all household members, including pets.

Home Fire Campaign Saves Lives
Since 2014, the Red Cross has partnered with communities to save nearly 2,400 lives nationwide by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms. To learn more about the campaign or to get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.