COON RAPIDS, Minn. – (June 22, 2017) – Since July 4, 1777, on the first anniversary of our nation’s founding, fireworks have been part of the celebration. And so have fireworks injuries. David Romans, DO, medical director of the Mercy Hospital – Unity Campus emergency department warns about the dangers of fireworks and precautions you can take to ensure a safe Fourth of July.
“While it is legal to purchase some types of fireworks in this state, this doesn’t make them benign,” said Romans. “Fireworks are explosives. They contain gunpowder and fast-burning, high temperature fuels that can lead to injury.”
Every year since that one-year celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, people have been hurt by fireworks or by fires started by fireworks. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) Fireworks Annual Report, 11 people died and more than 11,900 people were injured by fireworks in 2015 (2016 results are pending). In addition, the National Fire Protection Association reports that 15,600 fires were started by fireworks in 2013.
“The majority of injuries are caused by people not following proper safety procedures while handling fireworks,” said Romans. “The Fourth of July is a happy holiday, with parties, picnics, alcohol and other substances. Good judgment may be missing.”
The CPSC reports that the most frequent injuries are burns (59 percent), followed by contusions and lacerations (20 percent). Most injuries occur to the hands and fingers (32 percent); head, face and ears (25 percent); eyes (16 percent); and legs (15 percent). Teenagers, between 15 and 19, have the highest rate of injury, and males account for 2/3 of injuries.
Romans agrees that the majority of fireworks-related injuries they see at the Unity campus emergency department are burns. But they also get patients who have tissue damage to their hands, which can result in amputations of fingers and hands. They also see a number of eye injuries.
“As an emergency physician, I would prefer that people stay away from fireworks and just watch the professionally produced shows,” said Romans. “But I also recognize that people will still purchase fireworks for personal use. If that is the case, then I recommend some precautions.” Romans recommends that you:
- Read and follow the safety directions that accompany your fireworks.
- Wear proper clothing and safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
- Set off your fireworks in an open space away from people and buildings.
- Do not experiment with your fireworks and other items, such as bottles or closed containers.
- Do not let children handle or light fireworks, including sparklers.
- Avoid using alcohol or other substances while handling fireworks.
“If you do get injured, be sure to seek medical care in the emergency department immediately,” said Romans.
