As drought conditions worsen in Missouri, the Division of Fire Safety is urging Missourians to put fireworks safety first as they prepare for Independence Day celebrations. Over the last three months, the percentage of Missouri considered abnormally dry or in some state of drought has grown from 7.5 percent to 93.3 percent.

Fireworks also pose a risk of injury. According to data collected by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, in 2022, 324 people in Missouri sought hospital care related to fireworks; 292 of those people were treated in emergency rooms and released; 32 people were admitted to the hospital.

More than 77 percent of those fireworks injuries occurred in the three-week period leading up to and following Independence Day.

Missourians who choose to use consumer fireworks should follow these safety tips:

· Confirm fireworks are legal where you live; only purchase fireworks from licensed retailers.
· Only use fireworks in a large open space that is clear of flammable materials. Do not light fireworks in areas where a spark could ignite dry grass, leaves of other flammable materials.
· Always have a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire.
· Always keep young children away from fireworks; if teens are permitted to handle fireworks, they should be closely supervised by an adult; always wear eye protection.
· Only light fireworks one at a time; never try to re-light fireworks that have malfunctioned
· Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and leaving them in a trash can.
· Never shoot fireworks off from a glass jar or container.
· Never use fireworks while consuming alcohol.
· Never store fireworks from season to season.

For questions or concerns about firework safety, firework rules, or firework dealers, contact the Division of Fire Safety at (573) 751-2930