The American traditions of parades, cookouts, and fireworks help us celebrate the summer season, especially our nation's birthday on the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured or killed while using fireworks. Although legal consumer fireworks that comply with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations can be relatively safe when used responsibly, all fireworks, by their nature, are hazardous and can cause injuries.
Fireworks are part of our celebration of Independence Day, but remember Fireworks can be dangerous causing serious Burns and Eye Injuries.
Most frequent injuries to the head, face, hands, fingers and legs were burns. Most eye injuries were contusions, lacerations, and other diagnoses that included foreign bodies in the eye.
Some safety tips to remember:
Always purchase fireworks from a reliable source
Use fireworks as directed on consumer product safety label; never alter products
Observe local laws and use good COMMON SENSE
Have a designated shooter to organize and shoot your family show
A responsible ADULT should supervise all firework activities
Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks
Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show
Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; AWAY from buildings and vehicles
NEVER carry fireworks in your POCKET
Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks
Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks
Do not experiment with homemade fireworks
Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water
Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor trash can
Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department
*The National Council on Fireworks Safety urges Americans to follow common sense safety rules in their holiday celebrations.
Pinehurst Neurology wishes you a SAFE Independence Day!