WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) -- Thousands of people are injured using consumer fireworks each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand they can suffer devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.

In 2022, US hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 10,200 people for fireworks related injuries;

Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for 28% of those injuries.

WWAY spoke with the Wilmington Fire Department today. Deputy Fire Marshal Jacob Hawkins offers this reminder.

"You can have a water hose, a fire extinguisher, or a bucket of water ready to go just in case something catches on fire. You want to make sure you light your fireworks in an open area, away from buildings, trash, dry vegetation," Hawkins said.