Foot and Ankle Injuries from Fireworks: What You Need to Know This Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, community, and fireworks. But amid the excitement, many people don’t realize that this holiday is one of the most dangerous when it comes to accidental injuries—especially those involving the feet and ankles.

Each year, emergency rooms across the country treat thousands of firework-related injuries, many of which are entirely preventable. In this article, we’ll explore how fireworks pose risks to your lower extremities, the most common injuries we see, and how to stay safe while still enjoying the holiday.

🎆 Fireworks and the Risk to Feet and Ankles

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 9,700 people were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the United States in 2023 alone. A large portion of these injuries—nearly 42%—affected the hands, feet, and legs.

While most people associate firework injuries with hand or eye trauma, foot and ankle injuries are both common and often overlooked. Why? Because many people walk barefoot or wear flimsy footwear during backyard fireworks displays or barbecues—exactly when and where accidents tend to happen.

🔥 Common Foot & Ankle Injuries Caused by Fireworks

1.

Burns

• Sparklers burn at temperatures over 1,200°F—hot enough to cause third-degree burns on contact.

• Stepping on a used sparkler, firecracker, or ember can result in severe burns, especially in children walking barefoot.

• Fireworks that tip over or misfire can cause direct flame exposure to feet and ankles.

2.

Blast Injuries

• Firework explosions near the ground can cause blunt trauma to soft tissues, fractures, and even tendon ruptures.

• The small bones in the feet are particularly vulnerable to pressure wave injuries from close-range fireworks.

3.

Puncture Wounds and Lacerations

• Debris from fireworks—especially from bottle rockets and roman candles—can pierce the skin.

• Stepping on spent fireworks or shrapnel left on the ground often leads to puncture injuries and infections.

4.

Tendon and Ligament Damage

• Missteps in the dark while running or jumping to avoid fireworks can lead to twisted ankles, sprains, or torn ligaments.

🛑 Who Is Most at Risk?

• Children: Particularly vulnerable due to thin skin and higher likelihood of being barefoot.

• Young adults: Often engage in risky firework behavior.

• Elderly individuals: May have slower reflexes and reduced balance, increasing fall risk during fireworks activity.

• Athletes: Already stressed lower extremities are more susceptible to acute injury from unexpected trauma.

👟 How to Prevent Foot and Ankle Firework Injuries

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Wear Proper Footwear

• Always wear shoes—even in your backyard. Closed-toed, sturdy footwear is the best defense against unexpected debris or hot surfaces.

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Keep a Safe Distance

• Stay at least 30–50 feet away from fireworks when they’re being lit, especially those on the ground.

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Designate a “Barefoot-Free” Zone

• Make it a rule: No barefoot activity near where fireworks are being set up, stored, or disposed of.

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Clean Up Thoroughly

• After the celebration, inspect the ground for remnants of sparklers, firecrackers, and other debris before letting kids or pets roam the area.

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Supervise Children Closely

• Children under 12 should never handle fireworks—including sparklers.

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Use Only Legal, Approved Fireworks

• Consumer-grade fireworks are not toys. Use only as directed, and never attempt to relight a “dud.”

🩺 What to Do If an Injury Occurs

For Minor Burns:

• Rinse with cool (not cold) water for 10–15 minutes.

• Do not apply ice or ointments immediately.

• Cover with a clean, dry dressing and seek medical care if pain, blistering, or redness worsens.

For Punctures, Lacerations, or Blast Injuries:

• Control bleeding with pressure.

• Clean the area with sterile saline or water.

• Immobilize the foot and seek urgent orthopedic evaluation—especially if deep tissue or tendons are involved.

For Sprains and Falls:

• Use the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and monitor for persistent swelling or inability to bear weight.

🎯 When to See a Specialist

If you or someone you know experiences:

• Burns deeper than the outer layer of skin

• Unrelenting swelling or bruising

• Open wounds with signs of infection

• Inability to walk, stand, or flex the ankle

  
  

  …it’s time to seek professional evaluation. Early treatment often prevents long-term complications and speeds up healing.

🎇 Final Thoughts

The Fourth of July should be a celebration—not a visit to the emergency room. With just a few safety precautions and the right footwear, you can enjoy the fireworks show without risking injury to your feet or ankles.

If you experience an injury or have concerns after the holiday, don’t wait. Prompt diagnosis and treatment from a foot and ankle specialist can make all the difference.

📞 Need expert care? Schedule a consultation today and protect your movement—from the ground up.