Though sparklers may seem like harmless Independence Day fun, they are actually dangerous for kids. Sparklers can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.

Sparklers can easily light children’s clothing on fire. Children also can suffer burns and eye injuries from lit sparklers. In fact, sparklers caused the second-highest number of emergency department-treated fireworks injuries in the United States in 2022, exceeded only by injuries from firecrackers, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

This year, skip the sparklers and celebrate the holiday with festive alternatives. Here are a few ideas:

• Glow sticks. A reliably popular option, glow sticks are simple to use and safe for kids. Many glow sticks can be fashioned into necklaces or bracelets. Kids can also wave and twirl them to make patterns and put on a light show for the whole family.

• Nontoxic glow bubbles. Designed to be illuminated with a black light flashlight, these bright blue bubbles can entertain kids for hours.

• Glow-in-the-dark face paint or body paint. Unleash your children’s creativity with glow-in-the-dark face or body paint they can wear for the celebration. Like the glow bubbles, these paints are designed for use with a black light flashlight.

• LED fiber optic wands. These battery-operated party lights come in a variety of bright colors. With their feathery glow, LED fiber optic wands have all the appeal of sparklers without the risk of burns.

• Kid-friendly confetti poppers. Kid-friendly confetti poppers provide the thrill of firecrackers minus the dangers of flame and explosive powder.

• LED slingshot helicopters. Designed to be launched up to 150 feet in the air, LED slingshot helicopters light up the night sky, then descend slowly to the ground.

• Summer movie night. If you’re feeling extravagant, set up an outdoor projector and screen to host a movie night for your family in place of fireworks.

Make sure any option you choose is appropriate for the kids’ ages. Supervise children at all times so that everyone enjoys a safe and happy Fourth of July!