safety
Doctor: Sparklers can be as hot as welding torch
By Diana Castillo at KTSM 9 News (NBC)
· June 20, 2026
· 1 min read
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — As families prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, doctors are reminding residents that fireworks, while a holiday tradition for many, can also lead to serious injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 people across the country wer...
Key takeaway Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 people across the country wer...
Why this matters in The El Paso
The upcoming Fourth of July celebrations in El Paso will undoubtedly feature fireworks, a tradition for many local families. However, the risks associated with fireworks, including sparklers, cannot be overstated. Doctors warn that sparklers can reach temperatures as hot as welding torches, posing a significant burn risk to users, particularly children. Given the city's dry desert climate, the risk of fires sparked by fireworks is also a concern. As El Pasoans prepare for the holiday, it's crucial to consider the potential consequences of fireworks use, not just for individuals, but also for the community at large. The El Paso Fire Department and local hospitals will likely be on high alert during the holiday, and residents should be mindful of the resources that will be devoted to responding to fireworks-related incidents. By exercising caution and considering alternative celebration methods, El Pasoans can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.
About this story
Original reporting by KTSM 9 News (NBC) . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KTSM 9 News (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 20, 2026 ·
Source: KTSM 9 News (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — As families prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, doctors are reminding residents that fireworks, while a holiday tradition for many, can also lead to serious injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 people across the country wer...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 20, 2026 by KTSM 9 News (NBC) and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Diana Castillo at KTSM 9 News (NBC). To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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