America, the beautiful! As we approach the birth of our great nation, we also prepare for an exciting tradition: fireworks! These colorful displays are devices that use gunpowder and combustible chemicals that produce dazzling explosions when ignited. While these exhilarating instruments are thrilling to watch, they should be handled with extreme caution–they are not ‘toys”. Improper use can lead to serious injuries, some of which can land a person in the emergency room. Luckily, Surepoint Emergency Center is always available to cater to any fireworks-related injuries quickly and compassionately!

How Dangerous Are Fireworks?

Fireworks and sparklers may look harmless, but there have been enough mishaps to know that these things can land a person in the ER. In 2021, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported nine deaths and over 11,000 injuries related to fireworks–about 74% of these injuries occurred within four weeks around the Fourth of July. Additionally, 32% of all firework-related injuries are burns. The sparks emitted from sparklers and fireworks can reach temperatures hot enough to melt metal, posing a serious threat to anyone who handles these products. To stay safe, follow these safety tips when using fireworks:

  • Read and follow all safety instructions for proper use.
  • Keep children away from fireworks.
  • Refer to local, city, and state laws regarding fireworks; in some areas, they are not allowed.
  • Only use fireworks in open areas away from combustible materials.
  • Never allow anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol to operate any fireworks.
  • Never place a body part over a lit firework.
  • After a firework is lit, get away as fast as you can.
  • Do not ignite a device that did not ignite the first time.
  • Light one device at a time.
  • Always call 911 in case an emergency occurs.

When fireworks explode, they release gases such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide. The smoke also contains harmful metals like manganese, cadmium, and aluminum. Inhaling these substances can make it difficult to breathe and may lead to serious health problems over time if exposure is frequent or left unaddressed.

Potential Emergencies–How Surepoint Can Help

Although used in the act of celebration, fireworks are essentially dangerous explosives that can harm others if not handled properly. Here are some common injuries associated with fireworks:

  • Hand Burns: The most common injury from fireworks. This usually occurs after improperly lighting a firework or sparkler in your hand.
  • Eye Injuries: This can occur by standing too close to an active firework. Injuries can range from minor burns to complete loss of vision.
  • Hand Fractures and Lacerations: The explosions from fireworks can form deep cuts, tendons, or even broken bones.
  • Facial Injuries: Similar to eye injuries, this can occur when people get too close to active fireworks. Injuries include broken facial bones of loss of tissues in the face.
  • Loss of Finger: The intensity of the explosion could potentially blow a person’s finger off. If this occurs, clean the area with a water solution, wrap it in gauze, and place it in a watertight bag with ice until you arrive at the emergency room. Make sure your finger sits atop the ice and that the open wound avoids direct contact with it–this could cause tissue damage.
  • Hearing Loss: Loud noises from fireworks explosions can potentially cause hearing loss.

If an emergency does occur due to a firework-related accident, you can count on Surepoint Emergency Center to provide immediate, compassionate medical care. At any one of our 24/7 treatment facilities, you can expect:

  • Shorter Wait Times: Our ERs have little to no wait time, so we can address your concerns promptly and effectively.
  • Immediate Treatment of Injuries: Burns, eye injuries, or wounds are addressed immediately to ensure comfort and proper healing.
  • Pain Management: Our emergency rooms are fully equipped with the necessary pharmaceuticals to address pain and injury.
  • Prevention Education: After the injuries are treated, our doctors will provide general education on how to prevent these injuries from occurring in the future.

Always  read the warning labels and never allow children or intoxicated individuals to handle any fireworks or related equipment. If an emergency does occur, don’t hesitate–head to your nearest Surepoint Emergency Center today for fast, effective care.

Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.

Expert convenient care in your neighborhood.

      References:

      Iliades, C., MD. (2021, July 24). 6 Common Fireworks-Related Injuries (W. C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS, Ed.). Healthgrades. https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/injuries-and-wounds/6-common-fireworks-related-injuries

      The Hidden Dangers of Fireworks. (2024, August 19). American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/blog/fireworks-hidden-dangers

      Use caution with fireworks. (2023, June 23). Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/use-caution-with-fireworks