June 29, 2023 | Fireworks are as much a part of Fourth of July celebrations as hot dogs and cold drinks. But they can also lead to unexpected injuries and unwanted visits to the emergency room. Fireworks were blamed for more than 11,500 injuries in 2021, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission statistics, with nine of those incidents proving fatal. The majority of those injuries occurred between mid-June to mid-July. Young adults 20 to 24 years of age had the highest estimated rate of fireworks-related injuries in 2021. Of the nine U.S. deaths, six were associated with firework misuse, one death was associated with a mortar launch malfunction, and two incidents were associated with unknown circumstances. Only one state, Massachusetts, completely bans all consumer fireworks. However, they do permit fireworks displays put on by professionals, so if you’re traveling to New England this week, you can still catch a show for the Fourth of July.

June 29, 2023 | Did you know that sparklers can burn at more than 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, that’s hot enough to melt gold. Some consider them the safest of all commercially sold fireworks but they account for 12 percent of all fireworks-related injuries every Fourth of July. Lighting fireworks at home isn’t even legal in many areas, so if you still want to use them, be sure to check with your local police department first. If they’re legal where you live, be sure to buy only legal fireworks that have a label with the manufacturer’s name and directions, and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster, or quarter-pounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries. Kids should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair.

June 29, 2023 | When it comes to shooting off fireworks, steer clear of others, fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never try to make your own fireworks and never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest. Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket as the friction could set them off. Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year. Light one firework at a time, not in glass or metal containers, and never relight a dud. Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time. Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.

June 29, 2023 | Most people enjoy the booming sounds and flashing lights of fireworks but for pets they can be terrifying and in some cases, hazardous. The nation’s animal shelters have reported a dramatic increase in lost pets around the Fourth of July. Most animals are sensitive to the loud noises and strong smells that accompany fireworks displays, so it’s best to leave your pets indoors this week, preferably with a radio or TV on to hide the jarring noises. You may want to consult with your veterinarians for medications or techniques that help alleviate their anxiety. If you plan to attend an outdoors event this week with your pet, never leave them alone in a parked car, even if it doesn’t seem that warm. Even when the temperature is a balmy 72 degrees, the temperature inside your car can reach a fatal 116 degrees in less than an hour’s time. And make sure your pet has a collar and ID tag, even if they live indoors, in case they take desperate measures to escape the noise.

June 29, 2023 | When it comes to fireworks, it’s best to attend public displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don’t allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage. Also, don’t flush the eye out with water or attempt to put any ointment on it. Instead, cut out the bottom of a paper cup, place it around the eye, and immediately seek medical attention. If it’s a burn, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn. Do not use ice. Call your doctor immediately. A child that sustains an eye injury should seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist to assess the vision function and carefully examine all the structures of the eye. Frequent examinations until the eye is completely healed are often necessary. Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you’ll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe.