Listen to a firecracker
How loud is a firecracker?
A firecracker is about 145 dB, with a typical range of 140–155 dB. Peak level at about 1 m.
That is about 362 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 3.16e+08 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 145 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of less than a second; at the top of the range (155 dB) it is less than a second. Peaks above 140 dB can cause instant damage. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as a firecracker
More recordings elsewhere
- Firecracker by j1987 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Firecracker by SamsterBirdies – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- firecracker by grobbd – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Spinning Firecracker by j1987 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- firecracker.04.flac by dobroide – CC BY 4.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a firecracker?
About 145 dB, with a typical range of 140–155 dB.
Is a firecracker louder than a jet engine?
Yes – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while a firecracker is about 145 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.
Sources & credits
- Typical values compiled from CDC, NIOSH and ASHA noise charts
- Remarks by President Ronald Reagan while congratulating Richard Petty for winning… by Department of Defense. Defense Communications Agency. White House Communications Agency. 1962-6/25/1991 – Public domain
- Remarks by President Ronald Reagan while attending barbecue after Firecracker 400… by Department of Defense. Defense Communications Agency. White House Communications Agency. 1962-6/25/1991 – Public domain
- LEMMiNO - Firecracker by LEMMiNO – CC BY-SA 4.0
- Remarks by President Ronald Reagan doing commentary of Firecracker 400 with Ned Jarrett… by Department of Defense. Defense Communications Agency. White House Communications Agency. 1962-6/25/1991 – Public domain