8 fun alternatives to fireworks

The "oooh’s" and "aah’s" of fireworks can quickly turn to ouches if proper precautions aren’t followed.  Dayton Children’s sees several fireworks injuries every year.  In 2021, there were approximately 11,500 people treated in emergency rooms across the U.S. with injuries involving fireworks according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for 29% of burns, with children between the ages of 5 and 9 having the second-highest estimated rate of injuries in all age groups. Of these injuries, 32% of these injuries were related to burns.

Sparklers can burn at up to 2,000 degrees! That’s the same temperature as a blowtorch – it can melt many metals.  While sparklers have typically been thought of as acceptable for kids, they really aren’t for child’s play. In addition, children’s arms aren’t as long as an adult which brings the sparks closer to their body and their clothing.  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s report in 2021, a majority of the burns treated were to the hands, fingers, extremities and trunk. 

“Letting children play with firework poses a significant risk for injury requiring a visit to the emergency department or admission to the hospital and should be avoided altogether”, says Amy Schopperth, trauma program manager at Dayton Children’s Hospital.

“Fireworks are intended for use by adults in outdoor, open spaces and should never be used by children.” 

The best way to keep your family safe is to enjoy the holiday by attending a public showing where fireworks are set off by professionals. 

So, what are parents to do to entertain kids during Fourth of July festivities at home?

There are a variety of other items that can be just as fun as fireworks, without the danger. Anything that lights up or glows in the dark can be enough to entertain kids for hours as dark falls over the backyard. There are plenty of options for daylight, too, as well as games that replicate the bang and boom of fireworks. 

Some specific ideas include: 

1. Glow sticks, bracelets, and necklaces 
2. Flashlights, especially miniature ones, or colored lights 
3. Glow paint for the body or fabric 
4. Chasing fireflies 
5. Confetti-filled balloons 
6. Red and blue bubbles – you can even make your own with dish soap and food coloring. 
7. Silly String 
8. Straw Rockets 

If adults do choose to use fireworks at home, remember to take a few precautions first.

“Children should watch from a safe distance with adult supervision to keep them away from danger,” says Schopperth.

“Teach your children what to do in case they or their clothing catches fire – stop, drop & roll.’” 

Buy only legal fireworks that have a manufacturer’s label and directions.  Wear protective eyewear and have a bucket of water or a hose nearby, for quick extinguishing, if necessary.  Light fireworks one at a time and away from other people and flammable objects, like dry grass or torch oil.