As seasonal fireworks sales prepare to launch across Missouri on June 20, State Fire Marshal Tim Bean is urging residents to prioritize safety during the July 4th holiday period.
Sales from permitted seasonal retailers are legal through July 10. As of June 16, the Missouri Division of Fire Safety had issued 1,127 permits for seasonal fireworks vendors across the state.
“Independence Day is the busiest day of the year for fires in the U.S.,” said Fire Marshal Bean. “If you choose to use consumer fireworks, use them with caution—follow all safety instructions, avoid alcohol, and never let children handle fireworks.”
In 2024, 328 Missourians sought hospital care due to fireworks-related injuries, with the vast majority occurring between June 21 and July 11. Nationwide, eight people died and an estimated 9,700 were injured by fireworks in 2023, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Children under 15 accounted for 31% of those injuries.
Missouri fire officials recommend residents attend professional public displays when possible. For those using consumer fireworks, they emphasize:
- Only purchasing from licensed retailers;
- Using fireworks in open areas free of flammable materials;
- Keeping children and alcohol away from all fireworks use;
- Disposing of used fireworks safely in water;
- Never attempting to re-light malfunctioning fireworks.
The Division of Fire Safety inspects fireworks retailers to ensure compliance with safety standards, including proper exits, fire extinguishers, and fire-retardant materials.
More fireworks safety tips are available at dfs.dps.mo.gov/safetytips/fireworks-safety.php. For further questions, contact the Division of Fire Safety at (573) 751-2930.
