6 Fascinating Facts About Fireworks

With the 4th of July quickly approaching, many Americans nationwide are preparing to fire up their grills, and perhaps light up a firework or two in annual celebration of the country's independence.

But before you go striking a match or pulling the trigger on that long-stemmed lighter, here are some fantastic facts about the marveling visual display known as fireworks.

1. In 1986, roughly 6.6 out of every 100,000 people sustained injuries due to fireworks. Thanks to stricter government regulations that have improved overall safety, that number has steadily decreased, down to just 2.3 people in 2008.
2. The largest fireworks display in North America occurs every year in Louisville, Kentucky. Touted as "Thunder Over Louisville," the event kicks off a two-week long celebration of festivities leading up to the Kentucky Derby. 
3. China is the planet's largest manufacturer and exporter of the low explosive pyrotechnic device. Over 90% of all fireworks originate from China. 
4. Although seen as relatively safe compared to its more explosive counterparts, a standard sparkler burns 15 times hotter than the boiling point of water. Furthermore, a trio of sparklers together can create the same amount of heat as a blowtorch.
5. On a pound-for-pound basis, fireworks cost less than half the price of hot dogs.
6. Americans collectively spend over $1 billion per year on fireworks for 4th of July festivities. That equates to roughly one pound per every citizen of the United States.