Fireworks Safety Tips for the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, fireworks, and making unforgettable memories. Amongst the dazzling displays, personal safety must remain a top priority. Fireworks-related injuries send thousands of people to the emergency room every year, with hand and finger injuries being the most common. To ensure you enjoy a safe and injury-free Independence Day, follow these safety tips when handling fireworks.
Always Follow Instructions
Fireworks come with safety guidelines from the manufacturer. Please read and follow these instructions carefully to understand how to properly light and handle each type of firework.
Wear Protective Gear
Gloves and safety glasses can help minimize the risk of burns and debris-related injuries to your hands and eyes. Avoid loose clothing that could catch fire and ensure that your hands are dry before handling fireworks.
Keep a Safe Distance
Use a long-stemmed lighter or a safety fuse, rather than matches, to ignite fireworks at a safe distance from your hands. After lighting a firework, move away immediately. Never hold a lit firework in your hand, as explosions can occur unexpectedly and cause severe injuries.
Have Water Nearby
Keep a bucket of water or a hose ready in case of accidents. If a firework misfires or ignites improperly, water can help extinguish flames and prevent injuries. If a firework does not ignite properly, DO NOT attempt to relight it. Wait at least 30-60 minutes and then soak in a bucket of water before disposal. Once fireworks have been used, soak or hose them in water before throwing them away. This helps prevent accidental fires and ensures they are fully extinguished.
Light One Firework at a Time
Lighting multiple fireworks at once increases the risk of an injury to yourself and any spectators. Light them one at a time to maintain control and reduce potential hazards.
Avoid Alcohol and/or Other Substance Use
Fireworks should not be handled by anyone under the influence of alcohol or other substances that could cause impairment or slowing of reaction time. This includes any prescription medications that recommends avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery as a warning on the bottle.
Supervise Children Closely
Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults. Sparklers can burn at extremely high temperatures and will cause severe burns if mishandled.
Seek Medical Attention if Injured
If you or someone else experiences a firework-related injury, please seek medical help immediately. Do not attempt to treat severe burns or wounds on your own as immediate medical care can prevent long-term issues.
By taking these precautions, Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine hopes you can enjoy a fun and safe Fourth of July celebration. Let’s keep the holiday filled with joy, not injuries!