St. Louis City Fire Department Warns of Dangers of Discharging Illegal Fireworks

Fireworks are illegal in the City of St. Louis and cause thousands of injuries each year.

July 1, 2024 | 2 min reading time

Fireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays. However, they are not safe in the hands of consumers. Fireworks cause thousands of burns, eye, and other injuries each year.

In a recent study from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), occurring within a five day period around Independence Day (July 4, 2018), fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in the U.S. including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in five deaths, numerous injuries, and over 100 million dollars in property damage.

"There just isn't a safe way to discharge consumer fireworks."
—Fire chief Dennis M. Jenkerson

In addition to the potential for injuries, fires, and property damage associated with discharging consumer fireworks, it is also unlawful in the City of St. Louis.

"It's evident that commercial grade fireworks are being sold and distributed in our community, which is illegal," Police Commissioner Robert Tracy said. "Celebratory gunfire is also illegal and poses a danger to everyone. What goes up, must come down."

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