Are Fireworks Bad for Your Health?

It’s hard to resist the sparkle of a fireworks display, especially on a warm summer night. Americans spend billions of dollars on fireworks each year, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association. But if those roadside stands look tempting, take a moment to consider: Do fireworks pose any danger to your health?

“Fireworks release significant amounts of particulate matter and chemical pollutants into the air, temporarily reducing air quality, especially near displays. These particles can remain suspended for hours or days, potentially affecting the lungs and thereby affecting lung health,” said Charu Aggarwal, MD, MPH, an American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) expert and the Leslye M. Heisler Professor for Lung Cancer Excellence at Penn Medicine.

Particulate matter is a type of outdoor air pollutant. Breathing in particulate pollution, including smoke from fireworks, is harmful. It contains tiny particles that can be inhaled and sometimes lead to health issues. The smaller the particles, the riskier they are.

Can fireworks increase cancer risk?

The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists outdoor air pollutants as a group 1 carcinogen. This means they are known to cause cancer. Particulate matter has been linked to a higher risk of both lung cancer and bladder cancer. However, research hasn’t shown that exposure to fireworks can directly cause cancer.

“There is currently no direct evidence linking fireworks exposure to an increased risk of lung cancer or other cancers,” said Dr. Aggarwal. “However, chronic exposure to airborne pollutants generally contributes to long-term respiratory issues, and minimizing exposure is advisable.”

If you plan to watch or set off fireworks, keep an eye on local air quality. You can:

• Watch your local weather report.
• Check a weather app, which often gives the air quality in your area.
• Go to www.airnow.gov and type in your location.

If the air quality is poor, stay inside as much as possible and avoid fireworks.

Can fireworks cause other health problems?

Exposure to fireworks can increase the risk of some health problems. While anyone exposed to smoke from fireworks can be at risk, some people face even greater risk. People with lung cancer or lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be especially careful. Exposure to fireworks can worsen their symptoms. “People with existing lung conditions should ideally avoid close proximity to fireworks displays to minimize exposure to airborne irritants,” said Dr. Aggarwal.

Watching firework displays can cause health problems including:

• Lung irritation, which can cause coughing or difficulty breathing
• Hearing damage, especially if you sit close to where fireworks are set off
• Heart problems, like changes in heart rhythm or heart attacks

Using or setting off your own fireworks at home poses even more health risks. This is because people are usually closer to where the fireworks explode. Related risks include:

• Burns
• Bodily injuries, such as to the hands or face
• Damaged lung tissue
• Hearing damage or loss
• Vision damage or loss

How to lower health risks from fireworks

Fireworks displays can be a fun way to spend time with loved ones and celebrate summer holidays. As long as you stay safe, you shouldn’t be afraid to watch a display. Just be sure to use caution if you’re around fireworks that aren’t handled by a professional, for example, at a cookout or a block party. Ways to lower your risk of health effects include:

• Keeping as much distance as possible from the fireworks
• Wearing a mask, especially if the air quality is poor
• Staying upwind of fireworks displays
• Making sure there’s good ventilation. This means avoiding enclosed spaces

It’s best not to handle fireworks yourself. But if you plan to set them off, be sure to:

• Use protective gear.
• Avoid inhaling smoke.
• Follow all safety regulations and guidelines to reduce your risk of exposure to toxic chemicals and injury.

If you have any health concerns before or after watching or setting off fireworks, contact your doctor. They can offer guidance on how to monitor possible health issues.

Additional resources from the American Cancer Society:

• Healthy Lungs for Everyone (PDF)
• Anatomy of the Respiratory System (Lungs)
• ACS CancerRisk360: Take the assessment to learn more about what you can change to improve your health and lower your cancer risk.

Dr. Aggarwal is a member of ASCO’s Patient Information Editorial Board.