Experts say heed the warnings about fireworks-related injuries as Independence Day approaches
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Fireworks can be a way to celebrate the Fourth of July but they can also cause a painful holiday, if not used properly.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that, in 2023, 66% of fireworks-related injuries occurred in the weeks around Independence Day. They also reported that the most injured body parts are hands and fingers, making up 35% of fireworks-related injuries.
In 2023, the safety commission received reports of eight deaths and around 9,700 injuries involving fireworks.
The commission has some tips for how to celebrate safely:
- Never allow children to play or ignite fireworks (including sparklers -- they can reach temperatures as high as 2,000 degrees)
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area
- Never use fireworks if impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Keep water nearby in case of emergency
If you suffer a fireworks-related injury, Dr. Daniel London with University of Missouri Health Care recommends the best ways to treat it.
"For those burn-type injuries it's good to put cool water and compresses on the burn tissue to try to prevent the damage from extending more deeply into the skin," London said "And then if you start noticing blistering and things like that, that's where evaluation at a local health care facility, is helpful for possible topical medications and things of that nature."
He also recommends seeking immediate emergency medical attention for injuries more serious than blisters.
For a safe and free fireworks show, the City of Columbia's Fire in the Sky event is Thursday at Stephen's Lake Park.
