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The most recent state and national figures available indicate:

- An estimated 9,800 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries at U.S. hospital emergency rooms in 2007; 36 percent of emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the head, and 56 percent were to the extremities.

- The risk of fireworks injury is two-and-a-half times as high for children ages 5 to 14 as for the general population.

- In a typical year, more U.S. fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day, and fireworks account for half of those fires.

- Department of Health and Senior Services records show a 40-year-old man was killed in Missouri by fireworks last Fourth of July.

- In Missouri, emergency room records indicate 416 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in 2007; 30 people were admitted.

- In Missouri, emergency room records indicate that from 2002 to 2007, almost 2,650 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries.

Fireworks sales at licensed seasonal retailers are legal in Missouri from June 20 to July 10. Fireworks discharge rules vary by city.

- Purchase fireworks only from a properly licensed retailer.

- Always wear eye protection and earplugs if you have sensitive ears.

- Tie back long hair and don’t wear loose fitting clothes.

- Only light one firework at a time.

- Never try to re-light fireworks that have malfunctioned.

- Never have any part of your body over fireworks.

- Keep young children away from fireworks.

- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.

- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

- Make sure to have water nearby in case of a fire or an accident.

- Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and leaving them in a trash can.

- Never light fireworks indoors.

- Don’t use fireworks while consuming alcohol.  Use a “designated shooter.”

- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Don’t save fireworks from season to season.

Anyone with concerns about a fireworks dealer or the types of fireworks being sold by a dealer should call the State Fire Marshal’s office at 573-751-2930.

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