iowans against fireworks

The Iowa General Assembly is currently considering the expansion of firework sales by legalizing additional types of fireworks. The use and sale of fireworks has been illegal in Iowa since 1938 when the Legislature acted in response to multiple Iowa firework tragedies. Iowans Against Fireworks supports Iowa’s current fireworks law and opposes any legislation that would legalize the sale and/or use of fireworks in Iowa. Why Should the Legislature Oppose Expanding Firework Sales FIREWORKS INJURIES ARE REAL: • In 2013, an estimated 11,400 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments.* • 51% of the emergency department treated fireworks-related injuries were to individuals younger than 20.* • 40% of fireworks injuries occurred in children under 15 years old.* • 50% of the pediatric injuries reported had a supervising adult present. • Firework injuries can cause lasting disabilit y. In the summer of 2014, two people had to have an eye surgically removed at the University of Iowa Hospital due to fireworks. • Nearly 50% of all fireworks injuries are to innocent bystanders.* • 89% of fireworks injuries treated in the emergency department are from fireworks permitted by Federal law for consumer use.* • Access to fireworks matters: In Missouri from 2002-2007 there were 2650 injuries compared to Iowa from 2004-2011 where there were only 431 injuries. * Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2013 Fireworks Annual Report FIREWORKS DESTROY PROPERTY: • In 2011, there were 17,800 fireworks related fires causing $32 million in direct property damage in the U.S. • It is believed these numbers represent a significant underreporting. • Firework fires in 2011 included 1,200 structure fires and 400 vehicle fires. • On Independence Day in a typical year, fireworks account for 40% of all reported fires. • Risk of fire also exists where fireworks are stored, transported or sold. IOWA LAW CURRENTLY ALLOWS RESPONSIBLE USERS TO GET A PERMIT: • Iowa Code §727.2(2) currently allows city councils and county boards to grant permits for groups or individuals to put on a fireworks display. • Groups must be approved by the city or the county supervisors and fireworks must be handled by a competent operator. • This process protects the public, identifies the venue, identifies the time, and addresses liability.

iowans against fireworks

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