Don't Spoil July 4th Fun

Preventing Firework Injuries

Preparations for holiday celebrations are in full swing. Along with barbeques and parades, fireworks are a traditional way of marking our nation's independence. But without proper precautions, fireworks can turn a reason to celebrate into a reason for going to the emergency room.

"Approximately 12,000 Americans are treated in emergency centers annually for firework-related injuries," says Dr. Joan Shook, director of the emergency center at Texas Children's Hospital and associate professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

"All fireworks are dangerous, but firecrackers, bottle rockets, sparklers and Roman candles account for the majority of firework injuries," she says. Most firework-related injuries frequently involve the hands, head, face and eyes. More than half of the injuries are burns and one-quarter are lacerations. "The key to firework safety is parental supervision," says Dr. Shook. "Keep children away from fireworks and never let a child handle or light one. Make sure children are aware of the dangers."

The best way to enjoy holiday fireworks is to leave the holiday traditions up to professionals. Professional displays are much more spectacular and allow families the opportunity to relax and simply enjoy fireworks without worrying about possible accidents. But for those who can't resist setting off their own fireworks, Texas Children's provides these tips:

• Check with local authorities to make sure fireworks are legal in your particular area of town. 
• Store fireworks safely until the time they will be used.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks and never leave children unsupervised.


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• Talk about it!