Fireworks Scene Size-Up: What to Assume Until Proven Otherwise

Fireworks Scene Size-Up: What to Assume Until Proven Otherwise

Professional and backyard fireworks displays are a common sight on holiday weekends in Cleveland. Matthew Corrigan, battalion chief, Fire Medical Education Unit at Cleveland Fire reminds first responders to approach every fireworks-related incident with the mindset that hidden hazards still exist, even if the scene initially appears under control.

“Dispatch information can’t fully prepare EMS for what’s happening at the scene,” says Corrigan. “It can take a while to fully understand the hazards.”

Do not assume every device already exploded. Unexploded fireworks can ignite at any time. Responders should also look for propane tanks near grills, garages and commercial buildings.

Fireworks scenes also create dense smoke and dust clouds that may contain toxic chemicals and combustion byproducts. Wear appropriate PPE before moving deeper into the scene.

Structural instability creates another major concern. Establish a collapse zone early, especially with large structures.

A “small fireworks injury” may involve multiple victims, traumatic amputations, eye injuries, hearing damage or people who are trapped.

Crowds can complicate scene control quickly, especially during Fourth of July gatherings where alcohol, darkness and panic affect decision-making. Family members or bystanders may pressure responders to move faster or enter unsafe areas.

“I always teach our cadets that when you pull up to a major explosion, it’s potentially the worst moment of victims’ lives,” Corrigan says. “We have to be the calm voice and take time for assessment and planning.”

The impact of these incidents often extends beyond the scene itself. Patients with blast-related injuries may require rapid transport, trauma activation and coordination with multiple specialties once they arrive at the hospital.

“Blast incidents can be incredibly dangerous for both victims and the firefighters and EMS clinicians who rush in to help,” said Jeremiah Escajeda, MD, an emergency medicine physician at MetroHealth. “These injuries are often complex, and successful patient outcomes depend on the seamless teamwork between first responders and emergency department and trauma teams.”

Every fireworks scene requires continuous reassessment. If crews identify unstable structures, active explosions or uncontrollable fire conditions, commanders may need to switch from offensive operations to a defensive strategy.

As the incident evolves, responders should also coordinate with law enforcement early for crowd control, traffic management and scene security. Identify anyone who can provide reliable information about missing victims, unexploded fireworks or hazards nearby.

Request additional resources early if the incident involves multiple patients, fire extension or structural collapse risk. Conduct regular accountability checks and maintain clear communication between EMS, fire and law enforcement personnel.

“A detailed on-scene report is essential,” Corrigan says. “It tells incoming crews what they’re coming into, what hazards are there and what the plan is going to be,” he adds. “It helps everybody slow down and get organized.”