Parkland Health urges fireworks safety ahead of nation’s 250th Anniversary
Severe burns, eye injuries and fires can happen in seconds
With this year’s Fourth of July marking the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, officials anticipate heightened celebrations and increased fireworks use across Texas. Parkland Health experts are reminding families that while fireworks symbolize celebration, they also pose serious risks for burns, eye injuries and fires.
Backyard barbecues, red-white-and-blue desserts and fireworks are all part of Independence Day traditions. And while professional displays can be breathtaking, using fireworks at home can quickly turn a festive evening into a medical emergency.
“There are no truly safe fireworks,” said Sarah Scoins, MSN, APRN, ACNPC-AG, ACCNS-AG, CCRN, CBRN, Burn Outreach and Injury Prevention Educator in Parkland’s Burn Center. “Even sparklers burn at temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to melt some metals. In just seconds, they can cause devastating third-degree burns. With more people expected to celebrate this milestone anniversary, safety should be part of every family’s plan.”
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 14,700 people nationwide were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries last year, with 11 reported deaths. Thousands of those injuries occurred in the weeks surrounding July 4. Sparklers alone account for approximately 1,700 emergency room-treated injuries annually, many involving young children.
Hands and fingers account for the most fireworks-related injuries, followed by the head, face and ears. Eye injuries are also common and can result in permanent vision loss.
In Texas, emergency departments see a seasonal spike in fireworks-related burns and trauma around Independence Day. Fire officials across the state also warn that fireworks can ignite brush, grass and structural fires during hot, dry summer conditions — placing additional strain on first responders during the holiday weekend.
At Parkland’s Burn Center, physicians and nurses regularly treat patients with severe burns caused by fireworks accidents. These injuries are often deep and may require surgery, skin grafts, extended hospital stays and months of rehabilitation.
“People underestimate how unpredictable fireworks can be,” Scoins said. “Devices can tip over, misfire, explode unexpectedly or ignite clothing. Alcohol often plays a role, and that combination significantly increases the risk of serious injury.”
If a burn does occur:
• Cool the burn with cool (not cold) running water for several minutes to stop the burning process
• Remove jewelry and tight clothing near the injured area
• Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or loose bandage
• Seek medical attention promptly, especially for burns to the face, hands, feet or genitals
Health experts recommend attending professional fireworks shows instead of lighting them at home. Families celebrating at home can consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks, LED light-up wands, confetti poppers or bubble machines.
“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to trained professionals,” Scoins said. “We want families to make memories — not emergency room visits.”
If fireworks are legal in your area and you choose to use them, follow these safety precautions:
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should only use them under close adult supervision
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
• Never light fireworks indoors
• Use fireworks in a clear, open area away from people, homes, vehicles, and anything that can catch fire.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Do not attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak used and unused fireworks in water before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of fire
• Never use illegal fireworks
Opened in 1962, Parkland’s Burn Center cares for more than 800 inpatients each year. Serving North Texas and surrounding communities, it is one of only 64 burn centers in North America verified by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons — and the only center in North Texas verified to treat both adults and children. The center provides comprehensive care from emergency treatment and intensive care to rehabilitation and outpatient follow-up.
For more information about services available in Parkland’s Burn Center, visit www.parklandhealth.org/burn-unit. For information about services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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