Fireworks injuries can range from burns to complete loss of the hand and fingers.
The best choice is to attend public fireworks displays rather than setting off fireworks near or around the home. If you are a fireworks DIY, remember these safety tips for July 4th fireworks.
Safety Tips for July 4th Fireworks
- Obey safety barriers around a fireworks show and stay 500 feet from the launch site.
- Supervise teens when using fireworks.
- Wear eye protection when using fireworks.
- Read the labels and instructions before using fireworks at home.
- Remain standing when using sparklers.
- Soak used fireworks in water before throwing in a trash bag.
- Do not use fireworks indoors.
- Do not try to relight a “dud” firework.
- Do not touch fireworks debris. It may still be hot.
What kind of injuries do you historically see on the Fourth of July?
Obviously, burn injuries are the most common. Sparkler injuries, usually to small children, typically lead the way. These injuries happen when a child grabs the end of the sparkler or when a child walks into a lit sparkler. The temperature of the sparkler can cause a third-degree burn very rapidly. This is especially problematic if the injury is to the eye, as this can cause permanent visual loss.
The second most common injury is blast injuries, causing severe burns or amputations. Many times, fireworks will go off sooner than expected, taking the person lighting them by surprise. Also, fireworks that don’t go off, which are often termed “duds,” may explode unexpectedly and cause injuries. These types of injuries can be quite severe. We know that the risk of fireworks injuries more than doubles for children 10-14 years old compared with the general population.
What additional precautions can parents take to ensure a safe holiday?
Hot dogs are popular on the Fourth of July but pose a choking hazard for young children. One suggestion is to slice them lengthwise before serving. Many of us will attend pool parties this holiday. If hosting a party near water, designate one adult as the dedicated pool watcher. Drownings often occur at large gatherings when children are unsupervised. Lastly, apply sunscreen during the day and remember to bring bug repellent to fireworks displays, as mosquitoes are also drawn to the Fourth of July festivities.
Fourth of July fireworks and your pets
Loud, unexpected bangs from fireworks can cause serious harm or fear in your house pets, but you can help get them acclimated to this annual occurrence over time.
Noise fears are overall very common in cats and dogs. It’s estimated that 25-50% of cats and dogs experience noise aversion. This distress in animals can occur for several reasons. Known risk factors are if they were raised in a non-urban environment before 6 months of age, or if they were born after the firework season, as they weren’t able to experience them during their sensitive socialization period. Dogs with separation anxiety are also more likely to have a noise aversion.