Safety Remains Number One Priority as Sales
and Popularity for Fireworks at an All-Time High
SOUTHPORT, N.C., June 24,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fireworks are as deeply
rooted in American tradition as the Statue of Liberty, jazz music,
and Route 66. It is believed that Captain John Smith set off the first American display,
in Jamestown, Virginia, in
1608.[1] Since then, families have come together in backyards and
neighborhoods, or at community events, to celebrate Independence
Day and other special occasions with vibrant fireworks
displays.
We expect a banner year for fireworks sales. Despite
inflationary pressures, ocean shipping rates have declined since
the height of the supply chain crisis during COVID-19, making
consumer fireworks more affordable this year by 5-10%.
"Our member companies are reporting strong consumer fireworks
sales numbers, and we predict revenues could exceed $2.4 billion for the 2024 fireworks season," said
Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director
of the APA.
Experts Urge Safety
he APA, through its Safety & Education Foundation, is
dedicated to educating the public on the proper use of fireworks.
They encourage consumers to familiarize themselves with essential
fireworks safety tips before participating in backyard
celebrations. This year, the industry has raised significant
resources to mount a nationwide safety and education campaign that
targets everyone from school-aged children to adult consumers. The
aim is to ensure that everyone has the information and access to
safety tips necessary for a safe and risk-free holiday.
"Fireworks use is expected to hit an all-time high this year,
especially with July 4 falling on a
Thursday for the long weekend, said Heckman. Despite the
significant decrease in fireworks-related injuries, prioritizing
safety remains vitally important when handling fireworks." Heckman
emphasized the importance of only purchasing legal consumer
fireworks. "Leave the use of professional fireworks to those who
are properly trained and certified. These experts adhere to local
permitting, licensing, and insurance requirements, as well as state
and local codes and standards."
The campaign program includes a comprehensive approach, from
social media initiatives to Public Service Announcements (PSAs) in
high fireworks use communities. Additionally, the APA has recruited
the assistance of pet shelters across the nation to help ensure
people take measures to secure their pets during fireworks
displays.
To support safe family celebrations, the foundation has released
a series of safety videos. These videos guide consumers on the
legal, safe, and responsible use of fireworks, covering topics such
as proper usage, selecting an appropriate location, audience
safety, and disposal. Given the popularity and associated injury
risks of sparklers and reloadable aerial shells, the foundation has
also created specific videos addressing their safe handling and
use.
The safety video series can be viewed on the foundation's
website at
https://www.celebratesafely.org/consumer-fireworks-safety-videos
Have a safe and spectacular 4th of July and remember
to always #CelebrateSafely!
About the American Pyrotechnics Association
The APA is the leading trade association of the fireworks
industry. The APA supports and promotes safety standards for all
aspects of fireworks. The APA has a diverse membership including
regulated and licensed manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers,
retailers, importers, suppliers, and professional display fireworks
companies. Additional information about the fireworks industry,
facts & figures, state laws and safety tips can be found on
APA's website at http://www.americanpyro.com
Media Contact: Julie L. Heckman,
Executive Director
American Pyrotechnics Association
(301) 907-8181
www.americanpyro.com
1 https://www.history.com/news/fireworks-vibrant-history#
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SOURCE American Pyrotechnics Association