Fireworks can be very dangerous, causing serious burns and injuries. Following a fireworks safety protocol can keep your holiday fun instead of having it cut short with a trip to the emergency department.
Fireworks facts to know
- The types of fireworks that cause the most injuries are firecrackers, sparklers and bottle rockets.
- The most frequently injured body parts are the hands, head or neck, eyes and legs.
- Burns are the most common injury from fireworks.
- In addition to blindness, third-degree burns and permanent scarring, fireworks can also cause life-threatening home and motor vehicle fires.
Here are some fireworks safety tips to keep your family safe this holiday.
Do:
- Observe your local and state fireworks laws.
- Keep fireworks away from children. Make sure children stay a safe distance away from lit fireworks behind a protected barrier.
- Consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers. Parents often consider sparklers to be “safe fireworks,” but sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals and can easily ignite clothing.
- Have a designated sober adult light all legal fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
- Store all fireworks out of the reach of children.
- Keep a bucket of water close for the disposal of fireworks.
Don’t:
- Don’t allow children to handle fireworks.
- Don’t attempt to alter, modify or relight fireworks.
- Don’t point or throw fireworks at anyone.
- Don’t allow children to pick up used fireworks – some may still be active.
- Don’t ever hold lit fireworks in your hand.
- Don’t consume alcohol or drugs when lighting fireworks.
- Don’t forget you can be held legally and financially liable for injuries caused by using fireworks.
How we can help
If a burn does happen, run cool (not cold) water over the injured area to stop the burning process. Remove all clothing and jewelry from the injured area, then cover the area with a clean, dry sheet or loose bandage.
If the burn is more than mild, you can go to a nearby urgent care. However, if an injury or burn is significant or severe, you’ll need to go to the emergency department.
Learn more about the emergency and urgent care services offered at Mercy Health.
