As summer rolls around, families eagerly anticipate celebrations and other festivities accompanied by the dazzling spectacle of fireworks. While these displays bring joy and excitement, it's crucial to remember that fireworks pose significant risks, especially to children and young adults.
Risks of Fireworks
Over 70% of firework injuries occur in the month surrounding the Fourth of July holiday. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 10,200 firework-related injuries were treated in emergency departments in 2022, with 11 deaths. One in four children were younger than 15 years old. Injuries involved both users and bystanders.
The most common types of fireworks causing injuries are firecrackers, sparklers, and rockets. Of the 600 sparkler injuries in 2022, over 80% were younger than 15 years old, with one in three children being younger than 5 years old.
Hands and fingers, head including the face and ears, legs, and eyes are the most frequently injured body parts. Burns are the predominant injury, with lacerations, cuts, and bruises also prevalent.
Less common but more severe injuries include third degree burns, permanent scarring, hearing and vision loss, amputations, internal organ injury, life-threatening home and motor vehicle fires, and death.
Firework Safety
Fireworks come in all shapes and sizes. They dazzle, sparkle, pop, and sizzle! Children are naturally drawn to the fun effects that fireworks make. However, it is important for families to understand the dangers of fireworks and how to prevent firework related injuries.
Follow these tips for firework safety:
Professional/Community Firework Shows. These are the best and safest way to celebrate. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends viewing at least 500 feet away from the launch site to avoid injuries and to protect your child’s hearing.
Avoid Personal Fireworks: Do not purchase fireworks for home use. Approximately 43% of consumer fireworks were found to be noncompliant in 2022. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending public displays organized by trained professionals. If near personal fireworks:
Many firework injuries happen when a parent or an adult is present. Therefore, supervision alone is not enough to prevent serious injuries.
Do not allow children to handle fireworks. Even unexploded fireworks or “duds” can cause injuries.
Prevent bystander injuries. Ensure that children are kept at a safe distance from firework displays, even if they are not actively participating.
Keep water nearby, such as a garden hose and/or bucket in case of fire or malfunction.
Encourage children to wear shoes at all times to avoid burns/injuries to the feet.
Beware of Sparklers: While sparklers may seem harmless, they can cause burns (including third-degree) and eye injuries, as well as ignite clothing. To put it in perspective, boiling water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit can cause a serious burn in three seconds; most home conventional ovens max out at 550 degrees Fahrenheit; sparklers can reach temperatures of 1800-3000 degrees Fahrenheit! Children, especially under 5 years old, often lack the coordination to handle sparklers safely.
Education: Educate yourself and your children about the dangers of fireworks and the importance of staying away from them. Even if you prohibit your children from using fireworks, they can still be injured by being in proximity to others using them. Talk with your pediatrician if you have questions.
Choose Alternatives: Explore safer alternatives to fireworks to celebrate special occasions without risking injury:
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