The Illinois Liquor Control Commission is urging residents to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July responsibly, warning that alcohol impairment and illegal consumer fireworks can increase the risk of injuries during holiday festivities in Illinois.
As the nation marks its 250th year of independence this summer, the commission said professionally conducted fireworks displays are expected across Illinois and the country. But it also cautioned that most fireworks are illegal in Illinois, including bottle rockets, skyrockets, Roman candles, buzz bombs and firecrackers of all types.
The agency said irresponsible alcohol consumption can turn a festive day into a dangerous night because alcohol use impairs judgment and slows reaction times.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 38% of fireworks-related injuries are burns and that the most commonly injured body parts are the head, face, ears, hands and fingers.
“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is in the care of licensed professionals,” Illinois Liquor Control Commission Executive Director Lisa Gardner said. “We want Illinoisians to celebrate with safety in mind this holiday weekend. Have fun, plan ahead, and do everything in moderation.”
For those who plan to use consumer fireworks, the commission shared safety tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They include never using fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs, never allowing young children to play with or ignite fireworks, and keeping a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or other mishap.
The guidance also says consumers should make sure fireworks are legal in their area and only purchase and set off fireworks labeled for consumer, not professional, use. It advises lighting fireworks one at a time and moving back quickly, never trying to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited, and following all instructions and warnings on fireworks. The commission also noted that sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt some metals.
The Illinois Liquor Control Commission said its mission is to protect the health, safety and welfare of Illinois residents through regulation of the manufacture, distribution and sale of alcoholic liquors, as well as strategies to reduce youth access to alcohol products and training and education on responsible beverage service.
