ILLINOIS — As Independence Day nears, officials across Illinois are once again urging residents to steer clear of fireworks — not just because they’re illegal statewide, but because they remain a major source of injury and property damage each summer.
Despite the ban, hospitals and fire departments brace for what has become an annual pattern: a spike in preventable accidents caused by individuals lighting fireworks at home. On average, about 150 people are injured by fireworks each year in Illinois, many of them children, and some incidents lead to permanent disability or even death.
Decades-Old Ban Hasn’t Stopped the Fireworks
Illinois is one of just a few U.S. states with a full ban on the sale, possession, and use of consumer fireworks, including Roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and mortars. The only legally permitted items are small novelties like snappers, sparklers, and smoke bombs — and even sparklers are not entirely risk-free.
The state ban has been in place since 1942 under the Illinois Pyrotechnic Use Act, and violations can result in fines up to $2,500 and even jail time. Yet every summer, neighborhoods light up with illegal explosives, largely purchased from neighboring states like Indiana, Missouri, and Wisconsin, where consumer fireworks are legal.
Injury Stats: Who’s Getting Hurt, and How
According to the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, 2023 saw 155 injuries and 1 death from fireworks-related incidents. The year before that, injuries numbered 139. In 2017 — the worst year on record — 204 people were hurt. The majority of injuries occur between late June and early July, and most victims are under 30.
The most common types of injuries include:
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Burns to hands and face
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Lacerations from shrapnel
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Eye damage, including blindness
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Amputations of fingers or hands
The most dangerous fireworks? According to a recent state safety report, mortar-style shells top the list, followed by bottle rockets, Roman candles, and surprisingly, even sparklers, which burn at temperatures of up to 2,000°F — hot enough to melt metal.
Medical Experts: “Injuries Are 100% Preventable”
Dr. Brigham Temple, chief medical officer for Endeavor Health, says most ERs don’t add staff specifically for the Fourth of July, but they all prepare for firework injuries.
“These are completely avoidable injuries,” Temple said. “They’re often horrific — and they happen in front of family, kids, or at what’s supposed to be a celebration. One wrong move can lead to lifelong trauma.”
Local Enforcement: Elgin, Aurora, Rockford Step Up
In Elgin, police began taking a tougher stance in 2020 after growing complaints. Today, they issue fines up to $1,000, respond to reports via 911 and 311, and distribute bilingual signage reminding residents that fireworks are illegal.
Their approach seems to be working. Complaints have decreased over the past two summers, and police say they’re responding faster and more effectively to tips.
In Aurora, officers rely heavily on resident reports and encourage the use of their non-emergency 311 hotline to crack down on offenders. Other cities like Rockford and Naperville have also launched outreach campaigns and enforcement blitzes.
State Fire Marshal: Go to a Show, Not the ER
Philip Zaleski of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance reminds residents that there are dozens of professional, legal fireworks shows in nearly every part of the state during the holiday weekend.
“There’s no reason to put yourself or your family at risk,” Zaleski said. “Just enjoy the show from a safe distance. Leave it to the professionals.”
Even when fireworks don’t cause injury, they can lead to fires, property damage, and trauma to pets, veterans, and young children.
How to Report Illegal Fireworks in Your Area
To report fireworks violations:
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Call 311 or your city’s non-emergency number
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Some towns, like Elgin and Aurora, have online reporting tools
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Police recommend providing video or specific addresses when possible
But they also urge caution: “Do not attempt to confront neighbors lighting fireworks,” one Elgin officer warned. “Leave enforcement to law enforcement.”
What You Can Use Legally in Illinois
Legal items include:
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Party poppers
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Smoke devices
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Snakes and glow worms
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Certain sparklers (with local approval)
Always check with your local city ordinance, as even legal novelties may be banned at the municipal level.
Fireworks Aren’t Worth It
While setting off your own fireworks may seem like a nostalgic tradition, the real risks far outweigh the thrills. With serious injuries, permanent trauma, and potential criminal penalties on the line — many Illinois officials say it’s time to stop treating illegal fireworks as harmless fun.
Have you experienced or witnessed a fireworks accident in your Illinois neighborhood? Share your story or thoughts with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com
