Fireworks: It’s All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Hurt

Independence Day celebrations continue throughout this week! Warm weather, parades, and cookouts are all ways to celebrate the 4th of July. But, what truly stamps a trademark on this tradition are the fireworks. While mesmerizing and exciting, fireworks can be very dangerous. Knowing about firework safety is extremely important to your health during this season of celebration.

According to data on US Hospital Emergency Departments, about 9,600 injuries were from fireworks in 2011, and one fourth of those injuries involved children under the age of fifteen! Eye injuries and severe burns are most common when it comes to injuries from fireworks, but other repercussions can be much worse if you are not cautious.

When it comes to fireworks, your best protection is not using them at all. Professional fireworks displays are the safest way to enjoy fireworks on the 4th of July and the people who provide them are professionals who are aware of the dangers and safety precautions. However, if you still find the urge to set off fireworks on your own, here are six saftey tips to keep in mind.

1. The first rule of safety is to never make your own fireworks. Leave it to the professionals!
   
2. When purchasing fireworks, make sure there is a printed label and instructions on them. This shows that they are legal. If they do not have a label or instructions, they may be illegal and highly dangerous.
3. Keep children away from the vicinity of fireworks at all times. They are explosives and should not be taken lightly. Even fireworks directed toward small children are dangerous. Did you know a sparkler can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit?
   
4. Not only can fireworks directly harm you, they can cause danger those around you. According to Fire Marshall Jim Greeson of Indiana, “More than 32,000 fires result annually from the mishandling of fireworks, and cause more than $30 million in property damage." When lighting off the fireworks, make sure you are in a large, open space with nothing in the surrounding area like homes, buildings or cars. Fires are a popular result from careless use of fireworks.
   
5. Fireworks can also often shoot in the wrong direction, so NEVER hold them in your hands.
   
6. Keep a fire extinguisher or hose nearby in case of an emergency.

It is important to enjoy your holiday this July, but your health and safety are just as important. Make wise decisions this 4th of July. Enjoy the fireworks, but be cautious if handling them yourself.

If in case of emergency, Franciscan Hammond Clinic’s Urgent Care is open 365 days a year at the specialty center, 7905 Calumet Ave. For more information call: (219) 836-5800.