Jacksonville, Fla. – In the past two years, emergency departments in the United States have treated almost 20,000 people, mostly children between the ages of 5 and 14, for fireworks-related injuries. Almost two-thirds of these injuries occur in July, when Independence Day celebrations gravitate toward things that go “boom” in the night.
Two-thirds of the injuries also are burns from fireworks that are legal in many parts of the country (Roman Candles, bottle rockets, firecrackers and sparklers) and are regulated by state and local laws. Illegal explosives or homemade fireworks, which are deadly and should never be used, cause 25 to 30 percent of injuries.
When using fireworks, it’s important to remember that they are not toys and there is no such thing as a “safe” firework. Even sparklers, which are often handed to small children, can reach 1,000 degrees and may ignite clothing. In fact, 19 percent of all fireworks-related injuries are estimated to be caused by sparklers.
“Most injuries are to the hands and fingers,” said David Vukich, M.D., a University of Florida professor and chair of the emergency medicine department at Shands Jacksonville. “Eye injuries are the second most common site of injury and are especially dangerous; one-third result in permanent blindness.”
The best way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professional display, but if you choose to use fireworks at home, the American College of Emergency Physicians strongly suggests these do’s and don’ts to help make it a safer experience.
- Don’t give fireworks to small children. An adult should always supervise older children.
- Don’t wear lose clothing while using fireworks.
- Don’t detonate fireworks in glass or metal containers since the fragments can cause severe injury.
- Don’t try to relight or handle malfunctioned fireworks; soak them with water and throw them away.
- Don’t carry fireworks in a pocket.
- Don’t try to make your own devices and or purchase kits for making fireworks. Mixing chemicals is very dangerous and can kill.
- Do buy from reputable dealers. Never purchase or use illegal or unlabeled fireworks. Notify the police of anyone selling them.
- Do read the labels and follow all warning instructions. Most injuries occur because of improper use.
- Do check for spilled gasoline before lighting a match
- Do keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby
- Do light fireworks one at a time, and stand several feet from the explosive and
- Do dispose of fireworks properly.