Purdue Global fire science expert discusses safety tips ahead of Fourth of July celebrations
Experienced firefighter and faculty member Daniel Shoffner recommends leaving all fireworks displays to the professionals
Fireworks light up the sky as people watch. (Photo by Arthur Chauvineau/Unsplash)
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Fourth of July brings family, food, fun and fireworks. Along with the celebration comes an increased risk of fireworks-related injuries and fires.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 13,000 people were injured by fireworks in 2025, including 1,300 reported injuries from sparklers. The agency also reported 15 fireworks-related deaths.
Daniel Shoffner, a faculty member in Purdue Global’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences — where he is the course lead and instructor for Introduction to Fire and Emergency Services — said safety is of the utmost importance as we approach the holiday weekend.
Shoffner has 30 years of experience in the emergency services, currently working as battalion chief and public information officer for the Burlington Fire Department in North Carolina. He answered questions about proper use of fireworks and shared tips to keep families and property safe this Fourth of July.
Q: Why is it important to emphasize safety as we approach Fourth of July celebrations?
A: First, fireworks are commonly used as part of holiday celebrations. There are many public fireworks displays to enjoy. We always recommend leaving it to the professionals. However, many individuals also purchase fireworks for their own celebrations, and this is where we have a lot of concerns. Many people don’t understand how dangerous fireworks can be even if used properly.
Q: What are some safety measures people should take when they are preparing to set off fireworks?
A: In my opinion, the No. 1 rule is to never let children set off fireworks, including sparklers. Most people think sparklers are safe, but they burn at extremely high temperatures and cause severe injuries. If you do choose to utilize your own fireworks, have a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of a mishap. Only light one firework at a time and submerge used fireworks in water before throwing them in the trash. If a firework did not fully ignite, never try to relight it. Instead, douse it with water before touching or discarding as it could still go off.
Q: What kinds of injuries or dangers are most common with fireworks?
A: Fireworks-related injuries include burns and blasts to the hands, fingers and face. This is mostly due to fireworks or sparklers igniting while individuals are holding them or standing too closely when they detonate. It is not uncommon for fireworks to misfire into crowds of people. Improper use of fireworks can cause nearby structures to catch on fire. Fireworks can cause brush and grass fires if conditions are dry.
Q: What are some additional fire safety tips to help ensure a safe celebratory holiday?
A: The holiday weekend is also a popular time for cookouts and bonfires. Never pour accelerant on open fires no matter what type of barrier there is for the flames. Never utilize a grill within 10 inches of a combustible material or structure; and never use a grill on a combustible surface such as a wooden deck or balcony. This rule applies for all grills. If using a charcoal grill, thoroughly wet any leftover charcoal before disposing of it in the trash.
About Purdue Global
Purdue Global is Purdue’s online university for working adults who have life experience and often some college credits. It offers flexible paths for students to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, military service and previous college credits, no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and backed by Purdue University. For more information, visit https://www.purdueglobal.edu.