The Most Dangerous Fireworks in Louisiana
Lafayette, Louisiana (KMDL) - As we head into a big, 3-day 4th of July weekend, everyone is stocking on meats for the BBQ pit, cold beers, and fireworks.
If you're going to be setting off fireworks, doing so safely if key.
When it comes to what we think might be the most dangerous fireworks, if you're like me, you're definitely not thinking about one that seems harmless, but accounts for 25% of all fireworks-related injuries treated in emergency rooms.
These are the fireworks that send the most people to the hospital each year.
One of these might surprise you...
What Are The Most Dangerous Fireworks?
Any firework can be dangerous if you're not setting them off in a safe way.
However, every year there are 3 fireworks that account for the most injuries reported by hospital emergency rooms across Louisiana and the U.S.
READ MORE: Louisiana Fireworks Laws
1. Roman Candles - According to WTNH.com, there were 400 roman candle injuries reported in 2022, and 300 roman candle injuries reported in 2023.
Teenagers are most likely to be injured roman candles.
It's also important to know that you can to jail for firing roman candles at moving vehicles in Louisiana, and you will if you're caught.
2. Firecrackers - 1,300 firecracker related injuries were reported in 2022, and 800 firecracker related injuries were reported in 2023 according to cpsc.gov.
Remember, never light firecrackers in your hand and throw them at people.
Many times the fuse burns way faster than you expect and the firecracker will explode in your hand.
READ MORE: 4th of July Events Across Acadiana
When it comes to the 3rd most dangerous firework in Louisiana, it might be a little surprising.
3. Sparklers - Yep. The innocent sparklers that we even let 3-year-olds hold are responsible for hundreds of E.R. trips every year.
From joyelalawfirm.com -
"Sparklers burn at temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt metal and glass, and can very easily ignite clothing and hair.
They accounted for 600 injuries in 2022 and 700 in 2023. Sparklers can reach temperatures as high as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of melting metal and glass."
Most injuries involve burns to the hands, arms, and face.
Unfortunately, children under 10 years old are the most frequent victims of sparkler injuries.
Have a great 4th of July weekend, but be safe!