Fireworks Safety Tips From SSM Health

From SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton:

June 29, 2021

By SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital

Fireworks Safety Tips

We love fireworks! They are an entertaining and historical part of our national celebrations, especially on the Fourth of July.

Although they are thrilling and beautiful to watch, fireworks can be dangerous. According to SafeKids Worldwide, each year more than 3,000 US children under the age of 15 visit emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries. These can include serious burns, eye injuries, lost fingers, fractures, and other traumatic events.

To celebrate our Independence Day, we recommend enjoying the public fireworks displays that are widely available and usually free of charge. They are bigger, better, and controlled by professional pyrotechnicians who have the knowledge and experience to handle fireworks safely.

Play it Safe

If you choose to use legal fireworks, please obey the laws concerning fireworks in your city. Always have an adult supervise the activity and never give fireworks to young children. Only light one firework at a time, have a hose handy, and soak all used fireworks with water. Never approach or handle “duds” or ones that didn’t fully ignite. Use a hose to soak them with water from a safe distance.

Keep in mind, even sparklers can reach nearly 2000ºF and cause serious burns. Never give a sparkler to a child under 6 years, and closely supervise children under 12. Wear closed-toe shoes to prevent accidental foot burns.

Celebrate the holiday by enjoying the fireworks at a public display, following all applicable COVID-19 guidelines. Keep your family safe and have a happy Fourth of July!

This press release was produced by the SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Fenton. The views expressed are the author's own.