Fireworks: Love them or hate them, explosive pyrotechnics have been a fixture of July Fourth for generations. Although drone-powered light shows are gaining steam — since fireworks can traumatize pets, wildlife, violence survivors and individuals who suffer from PTSD — several locations in the U.S. remain renowned destinations for Independence Day revelers for whom the holiday simply wouldn't be the same without a flashing, popping, confetti-filled smoke show. Fireworks enthusiasts are staying safer than in the past, according to ValuePenguin. The insurance-resource website reports the number of fireworks-related injuries fell 35% between 2020 and 2022. Based on research that looked at a state's population versus how many fireworks each state imports, ValuePenguin determined that states with statistically higher fireworks imports are more likely to see a higher number of fireworks injuries and accidents. The slideshow above illustrates the five states with the highest fireworks imports per capita, according to ValuePenguin. Of course, just because you live somewhere with a high degree of snap!, crackle! and pop! on July Fourth, it's not a foregone conclusion that someone will be injured nor property damaged. The following fireworks safety tips were compiled by the South Carolina Department of Insurance: |

• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes to handle the firework and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and a water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

See also: |

• Insurer has no duty to defend, indemnify fireworks distributor for volunteers' injuries
• Fireworks can increase the risk of wildfires
• Are you covered for fireworks damage?