Fireworks Injuries Decline In Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The number of injuries and property damage caused by fireworks has declined in Minnesota.

But, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety says even one fireworks mishap is too many. Annual statistics collected from Minnesota hospitals and fire departments from June 25 through July 15 show the number of injuries has dropped from 111 in 2004 to 57 injuries in 2009. And property damage numbers have declined during that time from about $4,000 to $1,500.

State fire marshal Jerry Rosendahl says there are a couple things to keep in mind in order to continue to bring down those statistics. If it flies or explodes, the fireworks are illegal in Minnesota. Those that are legal include sparklers, snakes, glow worms, string poppers and other non-explosives. And, even sparklers with a tip that burns at 1,800 degrees can cause injury.

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