Tyler, Texas (June 27, 2024) — Every year, thousands of people are injured badly enough after fireworks-related incidents to require medical treatment during the July 4 holiday, with children and young adults suffering many of those injuries.
While the majority of these injuries resulted from amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, less powerful devices such as small firecrackers and even sparklers also can cause significant injuries.
“We have seen all sorts of injuries in our emergency room during the July 4 holiday, including children burned by sparklers, which burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals,” said Brittany Ray, RN, trauma services education and injury prevention specialist. “The last thing anyone wants is for an injury to ruin their holiday, so we advise everyone to take simple steps to remain safe this Fourth of July.”
If you are planning to use any type of fireworks, she advised the following:
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully
• Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs
Ray said the emergency department typically sees an increase in hand, finger, face and eye injuries during the July 4 holiday due to fireworks-related injuries, but said the holiday can also bring an influx of patients suffering from heat-related illness, food poisoning and excess alcohol consumption. She also cautioned that the holiday can result in increased car accidents and swimming related accidents.
“We ask that everyone please keep safety in mind this Fourth of July, whether that’s practicing fireworks safety, making sure you stay hydrated or being mindful to not let food sit out too long. Also, please don’t drink and drive, be sure to wear your seat belt, and always designate a sober person to watch children in the water to ensure a safe holiday,” Ray said. “We would much rather you enjoy your holiday than have to take a trip to the emergency room.”