Enjoy Fireworks Safely

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 9,700 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks. More than half the injuries were burns and most involved the hands, eyes and head and 50 percent of the victims were children under age 15. 

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As the July 4th holiday approaches, the Home Safety Council urges families to enjoy fireworks the safer way, by attending locally sanctioned fireworks shows presented by professionals who adhere to safety codes. 

Fireworks are not toys, they are devices designed to reach high temperatures, to burn and spark, and to explode and launch. They are unpredictable by nature and too dangerous for nonprofessional users.

Dr. Gary Smith, Director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Columbus Children’s Research Institute in Ohio conducted a 22-year study of fireworks injuries treated in emergency rooms. What he found may help you understand the risk. Here is a sampling:

•  ­        67 percent of sparkler-related injuries were among children 5 years or younger
• ­         70 percent of patients treated for all fireworks injuries were male
• ­         Adult supervision was present in 54 percent of the cases
• ­         The eyes were injured in nearly one-third of the cases
• ­         The average age of patients was eight and ½ years

 Although many states permit fireworks use by consumers, only trained and experienced experts should use or transport fireworks. Read more about fireworks regulations in your state.

Be aware fireworks safety is not a supervision issue. A fireworks injury can happen in the blink of an eye, whether or not a parent is standing by with a bucket of water. During the holiday, keep in mind that the safest amateur use of fireworks is none at all.

Marke Richardson - Bullitt County Emergency Management