Fireworks, backyard barbecues, pool parties, and road trips are all staples of the Fourth of July, but they also make Independence Day one of the busiest holidays of the year for emergency departments.
According to the new research from healthcare staffing platforms Nursa, nearly 47,000 Americans visited emergency rooms during the 2024 Fourth of July holiday, making it the second most dangerous holiday in the U.S. That’s almost 15% more ER visits than an average day, with fireworks, heat, alcohol, and traffic accidents driving many of those injuries.
For Floridians, the risks are amplified by soaring summer temperatures and a packed calendar of outdoor celebrations.
The Dangers of the 4th
Fireworks may be the highlight of the holiday, but they’re also responsible for thousands of preventable injuries every year.
More than half of all fireworks-related injuries happen during the first eight days of July, according to the report. The most common injuries include:
- Burns (38%)
- Bruises (19%)
- Cuts and lacerations (15%)
Many people are surprised to learn that sparklers can burn at temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt certain metals. They’re one of the leading causes of firework injuries among children.
If you’re looking for the safest options, attend a professional fireworks display instead of lighting your own. If you choose to use legal consumer fireworks, keep a hose or bucket of water nearby, light only one firework at a time, and never allow children to handle them without close adult supervision.
While fireworks often make headlines, Florida’s summer heat can be just as dangerous. Whether you’re waiting for a parade, grilling in the backyard, or stalking out the perfect fireworks viewing spot, spending hours outside can increase your risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Watch for warning signs such as:
- Dizziness or headache
- Excessive sweating followed by dry skin
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
To stay healthy, drink water throughout the day, seek shade whenever possible, wear light-colored clothing, and apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every two hours.
Florida’s Ranking
Nursa’s analysis ranked Florida as the 12th safest state for celebrating the Fourth of July, thanks in part to relatively moderate alcohol-related driving statistics of a 17.4% excessive drinking rate.
However, the state still experienced 188 fires on Independence Day last year, and reportedly $21,965,324 worth of fireworks were imported into Florida in 2025, highlighting how popular home fireworks displays remain.
With millions of residents and visitors expected to celebrate across the Sunshine State, emergency responders encourage everyone to make safety part of their holiday plans.
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