When it comes to fireworks injuries each year, Massachusetts ranks 20th in states with the most injuries during the summer season, according to a report by Allegiant Fire Protection.

“Midwestern states took every spot in the top five, with South Dakota coming in at number one…Nebraska took the second spot, followed by Wisconsin, Iowa and Michigan…Hawaii sees the least amount of firework-related injuries, followed by Alaska, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida,” the report said.

To perform its study, Allegiant "analyzed Google search trends nationwide to determine where fireworks- and burn-related searches like increase the most during the summer months."

The study also focused on how much states spend on fireworks each year.

The report states, “In conducting our research, we learned that the fireworks industry is a multi-billion dollar one, poised to grow to a staggering $2.8 billion by 2025. Between January 2020 and March 2021, the value of fireworks imported by America was over $400,000,000 or $1,232 per 1,000 residents. We wanted to know which states are importing the most fireworks, so we analyzed US trade census data to find out. Nationwide, states have spent an average of $8.6 million on fireworks in the last year ($1,784 per 1,000 residents).”

Massachusetts is 46th on that list, with residents spending $534,024 each year in total on fireworks, according to Allegiant.

Missouri spent the most, according to the study. Between January 2020 and March 2021, the state spent $71.4 million on fireworks.

According to Mass.gov, in the Commonwealth, “there were 944 fires and explosions involving illegal fireworks in Massachusetts in the past 10 years. These incidents caused three civilian injuries, 43 fire service injuries, and millions of dollars in damages…(state) medical facilities treated 31 people for severe burn injuries from fireworks in the last 10 years. These reports reflect burns covering 5% or more of the victim’s body."

The site also reported that ”on the evening of June 24, Troopers from the Department’s Division of Investigative Services and Firearms and Explosives Investigation Unit stopped several motor vehicles containing occupants who had purchased fireworks in another state and carried them into Massachusetts. Seven people were issued summons to appear in court to face charges of illegal possession of fireworks…Troopers seized approximately 425 items, many containing large volumes of multiple shots, with a total value of approximately $8,000. Among the items seized were aerial shells, cakes, large rockets, fountains, sparklers and Roman candles, among other types.

“The next day, Troopers again stopped several motor vehicles whose occupants were illegally in possession of fireworks that had been purchased elsewhere. Troopers issued six summonses and seized 654 items, many containing large volumes of individual shots, with a total value of more than $10,000. Among the items seized were aerial shells, cakes, fountains, bottle rockets, large rockets, Roman candles, sparklers, and 34 packs of firecrackers containing a total of 17,337 individual firecrackers.”

“These tragic deaths and injuries are reminders of just how dangerous fireworks can be,” added  Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Acting Chairman Robert Adler. “Consumers should enjoy professional fireworks displays from a distance, and be extra vigilant when using consumer-type fireworks.” 

He noted at least 18 people died from fireworks-related incidents around the country in 2020, compared to 12 reported for the previous year.

Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.

Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.

Light fireworks one at a time, then move away from the fireworks device quickly.

Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water, and throw them away.

Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.

After fireworks finish burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it.

Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.

Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

For more fireworks safety tips, visit cpsc.gov.