CADILLAC — Michigan State Police are warning people of the dangers of fireworks.
Lieutenant Ashley Miller, MSP’s 7th district public information officer said that they want to make sure people are celebrating responsibly this time of year.
Miller said last year there were eleven fireworks-related deaths and more than 14,000 people injured in the US. That’s a sharp increase of 38% for deaths and 52 % jump for injuries compared to 2023.
Burns were the most common injury, making up 37% of all emergency room visits.
“I know that the 4th of July is a great celebration. But there are a lot of accidents that do happen. There are a lot of people being burned and going to the ER. So, we just want to make sure that we’re limiting our alcohol use. We’re watching our kiddos around fireworks. Don’t let the children handle even sparklers. Sparklers burn at 2000°F. And that can definitely burn some fingers and hands,” said Miller.
Miller said to make sure you have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby in case there’s a fire to stop it from spreading.
She also advised to make sure to check with your local municipality to make sure there are no restrictions on when and where you can shoot off fireworks.