Officials recommend firework shows instead of personal use ahead of the holiday weekend

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Fireworks sent nearly 15,000 people to the emergency room and killed 11 in 2024, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Fire officials with the National Fire Protection Association say the best and safest way to view fireworks is at a professional show. However, for people who want to take a more personal route to their firework fun, safety is going to be extremely important.

CPSC recommends to keep a bucket of water, or a hose nearby in case of a fire, light your fireworks one at a time and move back quickly, never try to relight or pick up a firework that has not fully finished, and never use fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Some cities in the show-me-state have regulations around fireworks, like the city of Columbia. It's illegal to own or use fireworks within city limits. Setting off any other firework besides sparklers is condiered a misdemeanor.

Firework sales are only legal in Missouri from June 20th through July 10th.