Independence Day, New Year’s Eve and other celebratory events and holidays are fun times to celebrate and connect with friends, family and neighbors. During these times, people across the country spark up conversation and vibrate displays of fireworks.
But with those spectacular displays comes a healthy dose of danger. As the holiday approaches and you make plans, vow to keep your family safe by learning a few things ER doctors wish you knew.
Fireworks Are Fantastic but Can Be Dangerous
You see a patriotic display and cherished family tradition — but ER docs see danger. While fireworks are a mainstay of Independence Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations, they’re also a leading cause of emergency room visits as the holiday weekend nears. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that emergency rooms treat roughly 13,000 people for firework-related injuries each year, including burns on the hands, fingers, head, face, legs and eyes. These burns can range from mild to severe — and can be debilitating or life-threatening.
Protect Your Family: Play It Safe With Fireworks
According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, the best way to avoid any chance of injury from fireworks is to view only professional fireworks displays. The sponsors of these professional events:
- ensure all workers are specially trained and experienced in the use of fireworks.
- have emergency personnel on hand.
- take every safety precaution.
However, if you do plan to set off your own fireworks at home, we suggest following these important safety tips to avoid harm.
Use Legal Fireworks
There’s a reason many fireworks are illegal for personal use — they’re simply too dangerous. Heed all labels and warnings. And when in doubt, don’t purchase them.
Choose a Good Spot
Never light fireworks indoors or near a house or car. Find a flat, concrete surface away from dry grass, leaves or other flammable items.
Consider Alternatives
Swap out flaming hot sparklers with glow sticks for young children. Sparklers are one of the leading causes of injuries to children during the Fourth of July festivities.
Dress Appropriately
To avoid the chance of your clothing catching a spark, wear fitted, non-flammable clothing. Loose or flowing garments can be a formula for disaster.
Follow Directions
Manufacturers are required to follow stringent guidelines for labeling their products. Read the instructions on each firework carefully and light them one at a time.
Have a Bucket of Water On Hand
Having a bucket of water handy allows you to properly dispose of used fireworks.
Keep Your Distance
Stand several feet away once the firework is lit and resist the urge to check on a firework that doesn’t ignite right away. This is the most common way people get head and face injuries. You should also aim fireworks away from your audience and any homes or cars nearby.
Plan for Safety
Have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit on hand and ready for use.
Watch Children Closely
Children are curious. Help demystify fireworks by explaining how they work and why they can be dangerous. Review safety rules beforehand to be sure they know to stay far away from all fireworks, even after they’ve gone off. And, of course, keep a close watch during your display.
Make Sure Your Celebration Goes Off With a Bang
ER docs enjoy a good fireworks display every bit as much as you do — they just want to be sure you understand what’s at stake, so you can best protect your family. If someone in your group is injured during a home fireworks display, call 911 immediately. Follow the operator’s instructions for treating the injury until you’re able to get to an emergency room.
Originally published by AdventHealth. Reprinted with permission. Â
