Be Careful with your fireworks this Fourth of July
According to the U.S. News & World Report:
Estimates indicate there have been at least 9,700 fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. yearly since 2019. July 4, 2024, at 6:00 a.m. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, between 2008 and 2023 the U.S. also saw an average of 9.9 deaths per year related to fireworks.
But… things have gotten a little better
In the late 19th century and early 20th century there were a number of tragic events related to fireworks, either at factories that produced them or stores that sold them.
Here’s a look at a few of the firework induced tragedies that made headlines back then.
C. N. Romaine & Brothers Fireworks Factory Explosion
April 5th, 1894 – Petersburg, Virginia
Casualties – Between 12 and 20
The 1894 C. N. Romaine & Brothers Fireworks Factory disaster was a catastrophic explosion that occurred at the C. N. Romaine & Brothers fireworks factory in Haskell, New Jersey. The disaster began when a fire broke out in the factory’s powder room, rapidly spreading to other parts of the building where large quantities of fireworks and explosive materials were stored.
The explosion was so powerful that it was felt several miles away, and it resulted in the complete destruction of the factory. Debris was scattered over a wide area, causing extensive damage to nearby homes and buildings. The blast killed several workers and injured many others. The exact number of casualties remains unclear, but reports from the time indicate significant loss of life and numerous severe injuries.
The disaster drew attention to the dangers of fireworks manufacturing and highlighted the need for stricter safety regulations in the industry. It also had a lasting impact on the local community, which was deeply affected by the loss of life and the destruction caused by the explosion.
Rittenberg’s Store Disaster
June 21st, 1901 – Paterson, New Jersey
Casualties – 17
The explosion occurred at the Rittenberg store in Paterson, where fireworks were being sold and stored. The disaster began when a fire ignited the fireworks, leading to a massive explosion that caused significant destruction. The powerful blast resulted in the complete destruction of the store and considerable damage to surrounding buildings.
The explosion killed seventeen people and injured scores of others. Reports from the time indicate that the death toll included customers and passersby, as well as people inside the store. The tragedy shocked the local community and highlighted the dangers of improper storage and handling of fireworks.
SS Kresge’s 5 & 10 Cent Store Explosion
July 3rd, 1908 – Cleveland, Ohio
Casualties – 7
This tragic event took place at the S. S. Kresge Company, a department store where a large quantity of fireworks was stored in the basement.
The disaster began when a fire broke out in the store. The flames quickly spread to the basement, where the fireworks were stored, resulting in a series of powerful explosions. The blasts caused extensive damage to the building, collapsing the floors above the basement and trapping many people inside.
The explosion and subsequent fire led to the deaths of at least seven people and injured dozens more. The force of the explosions was so intense that it shattered windows in nearby buildings and was heard several miles away. The incident caused panic and chaos in the area, with emergency responders working tirelessly to rescue those trapped and provide aid to the injured.
Arnold’s Cigar Store Fire
July 3rd, 1909 – Nampa, Idaho
Casualties – Between 4 and 5 (Unconfirmed)
The Great Nampa Fire of 1909 was a devastating blaze that occurred in Nampa, Idaho, on July 3, 1909. The fire was ignited by fireworks stored in the Arnold Drug Store.
The incident began when a firecracker, likely part of the Fourth of July celebrations, accidentally ignited other fireworks stored in the store. The resulting fire quickly spread, fueled by the large quantities of fireworks and other flammable materials within the drug store. The flames rapidly engulfed the building and spread to adjacent structures, causing extensive damage to the downtown area of Nampa.
The fire caused significant destruction, leveling several buildings and resulting in a considerable financial loss for the local businesses and community. Despite the severity of the fire, there were no reported fatalities, although there were injuries and significant property damage. The blaze drew attention to the dangers of improper storage and handling of fireworks, especially in commercial settings.
Pennsylvania Fireworks Display Company factory explosion
April 3rd, 1930 – Devon, Pennsylvania
Casualties – 9 or 10
The Pennsylvania Fireworks Display Company factory explosion occurred in what is now Lake City, Pennsylvania. This tragic event took place at the factory where large quantities of fireworks and explosive materials were manufactured and stored.
The disaster began when an explosion occurred in the factory, possibly triggered by a spark or an accident during the manufacturing process. The initial blast set off a chain reaction, causing multiple explosions throughout the facility. The powerful explosions demolished the factory building and sent debris flying over a wide area.
The explosion resulted in the deaths of ten people and injured many others. Most of the victims were workers in the factory, but some nearby residents were also affected by the blast. The force of the explosions was so intense that it was felt miles away and caused significant damage to surrounding buildings and properties.
Drake Drug Company fireworks explosion
July 1st, 1937 – Nampa, Idaho
Casualties – 5 or 6
The second fireworks-related tragedy in Nampa, Idaho, occurred at Drake’s Drug Store. This incident was similar to the Great Nampa Fire of 1909 in that it also involved the accidental ignition of fireworks stored in the building.
On that day, a fire broke out in Drake’s Drug Store, where a significant quantity of fireworks was being kept. The fire quickly reached the fireworks, resulting in a series of explosions. The powerful blasts caused extensive damage to the store and nearby buildings.
The explosion and ensuing fire led to significant destruction in the downtown area of Nampa. While specific details about casualties are not widely documented, the incident caused panic and injuries among those in the vicinity. The force of the explosions was severe, shattering windows and causing structural damage to surrounding properties.
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