Independence Day Can Bring Burn Risks
6/30/2021
As pandemic restrictions are lifted, and the country eases back into large gatherings and social events, Dr. Derek M. Culnan, interim medical director of the Joseph M. Still Burn and Reconstructive Center at Merit Health Central in Jackson, MS, wants to wish everyone a safe, friends-and-family-filled Fourth of July weekend.
“It’s the start of summer and, before we head outside for the holiday weekend, I would like to remind everyone to wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses during the day to help prevent severe sunburns and sun poisoning,” said Dr. Culnan. “And when the sun goes down, remember to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while handling fireworks or grilling, especially if children are present.”
Every Fourth of July, hospitals and clinics across the country see a rise in patients with firework related injuries, a majority of whom are children and teenagers. The mishandling or misuse of fireworks, along with improperly discarded hot debris, are among the most common hazards when it comes to burn injuries to the hands, legs, or head.
When handling fireworks remember to:
- Set up the firework on a flat surface to reduce the risk of tipping over.
- Educate children on proper firework etiquette: Don’t get too close and don’t touch.
- Closely monitor children when they have sparklers.
- Avoid re-lighting, leaning over, or picking up a “dud.” The firework is still live and has the potential to detonate.
“Hot firework debris can be just as injurious as active fireworks,” he said. “When children are done with sparklers, make sure to place the hot metal sticks in a bucket of sand or water. The same goes for all other firework debris that may end up on the ground for people to step on.”
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