Safety, Injury Prevention
Fireworks and the 4th of July go together like brats and buns.
But, with many celebrations and fireworks displays canceled this year, more people may try to light up the sky at home.
But without proper training, this may lead to tragedy -- a loss of independence and, in worse case scenarios, the loss of life.
According to the National Safety Council, 17 people died, and more than 12,000 people were injured by fireworks in 2017. Half of those injured were under 20 years of age. Even the most “harmless” of fireworks cause injury. Firecrackers cause nearly a fifth of fireworks-related injuries. Sparklers cause another 25 percent.
According to a June 26, 2019 press release from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 62 percent of fireworks injuries that occurred in 2018 happened between June 22 and July 22.
Here are a few reminders about fireworks safety to help you steer clear of already crowded emergency rooms this year.
Carry fireworks safely. Avoid putting fireworks in your pockets. If they ignite, they can cause serious injury.
In 2017, fireworks caused about 18,500 fires. Before you light one match or flick a lighter, make sure you have fast access to water to put out hot spots.
You’ll need to pour water overused firework cartridges, duds, and misfires before
throwing them in the trash.
Children of all ages are fascinated by fire and sparks.
Supervise children near fireworks. Even sparklers, which can reach temperatures hot enough to melt metal, can cause injury.
Keep children a safe distance away from firecrackers and other fireworks that explode from the ground.
Never re-light or handle a dud. It could explode at any moment. Instead, soak any misfired or failed-to-launch cartridges or rockets in water and throw them away.
Fireworks are fun to watch, but even professionals respect how dangerous they can be. If you use them, use extreme caution.
We wish you and you’re a safe and healthy summer full of memories and free of injury.
Sources:
https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/fireworks#:~:text=In%202017%2C%20eight%20people%20died,June%2016%20to%20July%2016.
https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks
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