Celebrating with a Bang
For many families, firecrackers and bottle rockets are as much a part of the Fourth of July as hot dogs and potato salad. There’s something about lighting a sparkler or launching a Roman candle that puts everyone in the spirit to celebrate our nation’s founding. John Adams was on the mark when he wrote to his wife and predicted the signing of the Declaration of Independence would be commemorated with “illuminations from one end of the continent to the other from this time forward.”
Americans spent more than $1 billion on fireworks in 2019, and the American Pyrotechnics Association expects this year’s sales to be even higher as more families plan celebrations at home rather than attending public displays. The trade group for fireworks vendors reports brisk sales this summer and all signs point to a record year at roadside tents.
Missourians seem especially fond of fireworks. In 2018, we led the nation in fireworks imported per person. According to U.S. Trade Census data, wholesale fireworks imports to Missouri topped $42 million that year – roughly 15 percent of the national total. The Missouri Department of Public Safety issues more than 1,200 seasonal permits to fireworks vendors who sell to the public between June 20 and July 10, and from Dec. 20 through Jan. 2. In addition, 75 large fireworks “jobbers” sell fireworks year-round for use outside the state. These are typically located along interstate highways and near state lines. Missouri is also home to a number of fireworks distributors, wholesalers, manufacturers and companies that provide aerial fireworks displays for communities and sporting events. Missouri S&T even offers courses in pyrotechnics.
Despite rising consumption of fireworks nationwide, fireworks-related injuries reported by emergency rooms have remained relatively constant. The statistical result is the rate of injury per 100,000 pounds of fireworks consumed is lower than it’s been in decades. In terms of total injuries, the Pyrotechnics Association argues fireworks are responsible for far fewer emergency room visits than other common summertime pursuits, such as swimming, bicycling, sports or playground activities. Still, more than 12,000 Americans visited an ER last year with a fireworks-related injury, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Fireworks injuries can be avoided if basic safety precautions are followed. Don’t let small children handle fireworks, and make sure adults supervise the older kids. Launch fireworks from a level surface and follow the directions on the package. Never light fireworks indoors. Don’t hold lighted fireworks in your hand. Don’t throw or point fireworks at another person. Keep them away from flammable materials. Remember alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.
Besides personal injuries, fireworks accounted for more than 19,500 fires, including 1,300 structure fires, nationwide in 2018, according to the National Fire Prevention Association. Also remember that even if fireworks don’t cause physical harm to persons or property, they can inflict psychological damage. Many veterans who experience post-traumatic stress symptoms are triggered by loud noises. Pets and livestock, too, often have a difficult time during fireworks season. Please be considerate when you enjoy fireworks over the holidays.
For those of us who prefer to let others light the fireworks, there’s good news. Most of the annual community fireworks displays in our area will go forward, despite COVID-19. The annual Lion’s Club Carnival in Rolla has been postponed, but the fireworks displays will be presented as scheduled on July 3 and 4. The event’s organizers promise high altitude bursts this year so spectators can view the display from miles around.
In St. James, the fireworks will launch from the middle school instead of the Veteran’s Home, which is currently off limits. You won’t be able to watch from the school, but there should be good viewing at the Tourist Center and from nearby parking lots. The Steelville Freedom Fest is canceled this year, but the fireworks display will be held once the sun sets on July 4. Salem’s annual fireworks display at the Dent County Commons is also still a go this year. Visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks will have multiple opportunities to view fireworks on shore and from the water.
Fireworks have been an essential part of Fourth of July celebrations ever since the ink dried on the Declaration of Independence. Whether you prefer to sit on a blanket and watch professionals light the sky or you like lighting the match yourself, fireworks set the mood for Independence Day. With so much turmoil and strife in our nation over the past few weeks, I hope we all take a moment to reflect on the blessings of freedom we enjoy as we watch the “illuminations” Adams foretold. Do it safely and don’t take unnecessary risks, but go ahead and have a good time. America is a great country and worthy of celebration.
It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.