Tradition and Safety
Fireworks are an American tradition, used to commemorate several national holidays. For instance, Independence Day firework displays date back to the United States’ first birthday on July 4, 1777. Nevertheless, fireworks are much older than the United States and even the discovery of the Americas. Their creation dates back more than 2,000 years with their origin beginning in China.
Aerial fireworks first appeared around the year 1200 thanks to the use of gunpowder as a propellent. But the colorful displays associated with modern firework displays began in the 1830s when specific metals were added to the mixture, creating the reactions needed to produce colored explosions other than simply the typical orange.
These beautiful displays of shapes, colors and designs still wow spectators and provide entertainment for the masses every year. Innovations have made them bigger, better and safer especially over the last 200 years. These innovations, along with better and faster production methods, make them more available to not just professionals but to the public.
The increase in commercial availability means that it is much easier to participate in or view fireworks displays of all sizes, from small backyard family shows to city-sponsored events. No matter the changes in safety standard, they are still very dangerous objects, especially when they are mishandled, or when proper precautions are not followed. So, the only safe way to enjoy fireworks is watching professional displays because in the hands of an average person they can be extremely dangerous with the potential for severe injury, fire or death.
Health and Safety Risks
Each year, fireworks cause thousands of injuries and burns with the majority to the extremities and head. Children are especially susceptible to firework injuries as individuals under 15 years old make up one third of victims. Children ages 10-14 have the highest rate of injury of any group.
Many people think of fireworks as the high flying and explosive displays seen on television or hosted by local government or private business; however, not all fireworks are explosive, as sparklers cause about a quarter of fireworks injuries. Handheld fireworks may seem safe compared to more explosive items, but they burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit which can cause third-degree burns. Glowsticks are a safe alternative to sparklers, as they are colorful and longer lasting than individual sparklers. Another potential alternative is silly string, as it is safe and encourages playful interactions.
Fireworks also pose a risk of starting avoidable fires as approximately 20,000 fireworks-related fires occur annually. These can range from structure fires that could fully engulf a home to brush fires that can quickly spread and threaten a lot of lives and property depending upon the weather conditions.
Public Safety Concerns
Additional medical and fire calls from fireworks put a strain on the public safety sector during the summer months. The uptick in calls mean crews are working a higher volume of calls that are of a higher severity. This puts them at a higher risk of injury or death as they work to stop the spread of a fire or help a victim of a fireworks-related injury.
If you are looking to safely enjoy fireworks this upcoming holiday season, Polk County has many professionals displays. You can make a day of it attending the many activities offered during the various events from concerts to baseball games before enjoying the main event, the fireworks display.
Polk County Firework Displays
Saturday, June 29
City of Eagle Lake – Patriotic Celebration | Eagle Lake Park | 5-9:30 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3
City of Lakeland – Red, White and Kaboom | Frances Langford Promenade | 6-9 p.m.
City of Winter Haven – Rock N’ Freedom Fest | Dr. Martin Luther King Park | 6-9 p.m.
Thursday, July 4
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort – Red, White & BOOM! | Legoland | 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
City of Bartow – Fourth of July Celebration | Mosaic Park | 2:30-9:30 p.m.
City of Davenport – Fourth of July Celebration | Lewis Mathews Sports Complex | 3-9:45 p.m.
City of Lake Wales – Rockin’ the Ridge | Lake Wailes Park | 3-10 p.m.
Haines City – Thunder on the Ridge | Lake Eva Park | 4-9:30 p.m.
Lakeland Flying Tigers – Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular | Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium | 5-9 p.m.
Town of Dundee – Fourth of July Fireworks Display | Dundee Community Center | 5-9:30 p.m.
City of Auburndale – Fourth of July Fireworks Display | Lake Ariana | 9-10 p.m.
For a full list and details: Fourth of July Events in Central Florida 2024