The excitement of Independence Day and the joy of 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence shouldn't end with a trip to the emergency room or a visit from the fire department.

As families across Mount Prospect prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, the Mount Prospect Fire Department is reminding residents that all fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in the Village of Mount Prospect. The Village's Fire Prevention Code prohibits the use, purchase, and possession of fireworks, and violations may result in fines ranging from $500 to $2,500 per incident.

Every year, thousands of people, many of them children, suffer serious injuries from fireworks, including burns, hearing loss, and permanent eye damage. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 13,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2025, with an estimated 1,300 emergency room treated injuries involving sparklers. The age group between 15 to 24 years old accounted for the largest share of reported injuries.

Fireworks-related injuries have steadily increased over the past 15 years. The danger extends beyond personal injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started an estimated 34,000 fires in 2024. Sparklers are not a safe alternative. They can burn at temperatures of up to 1,800°F. Even after the spark fades, they can remain hot enough to cause severe burns, especially to young children.

“Independence Day should be remembered for time with the people you care about—not an emergency room visit, a neighborhood fire, or damage to a home,” said Fire Chief Tom Wang. “Celebrate safely by attending a professional fireworks display and leaving personal fireworks out of the plans. Leave the fireworks to the professionals—and help keep emergency calls off the holiday schedule.”

There are plenty of fun ways to celebrate without fireworks. Glow sticks, LED light-up toys, flashlights, patriotic decorations, backyard games, and music can create lasting memories without the risk of injury or fire.

This Fourth of July, celebrate responsibly, look out for your neighbors, and help keep Mount Prospect safe.