Fireworks-related injuries on decline in California
Personal injuries attributed to fireworks have decreased in California for the years 1995 and 1996, according to the California State Fire Marshal`s Office. The statistics were part of NFIRS (National Fire Incident Reporting System) data and hospital reports. The state had 329 injuries in 1995; 150 were the result of the use of illegal devices and 100 of legal fireworks; 79 were classified as undetermined.
In 1996, there were 221 fireworks-related injuries: 96 attributed to illegal devices and 85 to legal devices; 40 were classified as undetermined.
Factors contributing to the decrease in injuries include the major public education efforts of the State Fire Marshal`s Office and the state`s significant increase in fees for fireworks licenses (used to fund the fireworks public education programs). Educational projects include an Internet fireworks web site (www.fireworks-safety.com); a children`s educational cartoon video; and a display of posters at all highway rest stops, arranged through an agreement with the highway patrol. The state is now working with manufacturers internationally to develop quality controls for the products. (Source: NFPA Update, August/September 1997)
