The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office want to remind Tennesseans of the risks associated with consumer fireworks.

Fireworks can pose hazards to personal safety, property and finances when used incorrectly or irresponsibly. In 2023, fireworks caused 135 fires and $937,649 in damages in Tennessee alone. Across the county, eight people died and about 9,700 were injured due to firework-related incidents, according to a report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

“The safest way to celebrate Independence Day with friends, family members, and loved ones is to attend a public fireworks display put on by trained and licensed fireworks professionals,” said Tennessee State Fire Marshal and TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence. “If you choose to use consumer fireworks to celebrate, I ask that consumers first familiarize themselves with their local fireworks laws as some municipalities have ordinances and restrictions related to fireworks usage. Additionally, consumers should always follow all safety guidelines and warnings to help ensure a safe and fun experience for all.”

If consumers fireworks are permitted where you reside in Tennessee, ensure that you follow these safety guidelines from the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office:

Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.

Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

Wear eye protection.

Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

Never throw or point fireworks at people or animals.

Only light fireworks outdoors on a smooth, flat surface away from homes, dry leaves, and flammable materials.

Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.

Sparklers are not toys and cause hundreds of injuries every year. Sparklers burn hot, can reach temperatures as high as 1,200 F, and stay hot after they’ve burned out.