Fourth Of July Firework Safety Tips

6-25-97
Hershey, Pa. -- Fourth of July means picnics, fun and fireworks. Unfortunately, fireworks are responsible for nearly 4,000 cases involving children needing treatment at the emergency department of local hospitals each year.

There are about 55 million pounds of fireworks sold annually, with about two-thirds of that amount for private use. An estimated 1,000 pre-schoolers and another 3,000 children aged 5 to 14 are injured during firework accidents which require emergency room treatment.

"These numbers are significant considering the risk exposure for most children is only in the few weeks surrounding Independence Day," said Susan Rzucidlo, M.S.N., R.N., pediatric trauma coordinator at Penn State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and program director, Coalition for Lifetime Injury Prevention.

"Fireworks are associated with Fourth of July celebrations but also contribute to many burns, cuts and face and hand injuries each year, sometimes causing permanent injuries," said Rzucidlo.

According to Rzucidlo, fireworks are also responsible for about 120 finger and hand amputations a year.

"Don't let your child be the next one we see in the emergency department. Take your children to a sanctioned, public fireworks display; don't purchase fireworks for home use. Children can get burned, their clothing can ignite, fingers can be amputated and children can go blind if fireworks explode prematurely. Even sparklers can be dangerous to small children," said Rzucidlo.

"Following these simple tips and pre-planning will make your Fourth of July activities safe and injury free, so you are able to enjoy the celebration," she said.

-- Use fireworks in an open area, clear of brush, materials and debris that could catch fire.

-- Children must be supervised by a responsible adult.

-- Sparklers and fireworks should not be placed near or aimed at the face or body.

-- Even if a fuse appears to go out, fireworks should still be considered lit and should not be picked up.

-- Alcohol, drugs and fireworks do not mix.

Following these few simple guidelines can help you and your family safely enjoy your Fourth of July celebrations.

This information has been provided by the Coalition for Lifetime Injury Prevention at Hershey Medical Center. To learn more about how you can prevent injuries, please contact CLIP at (717) 531-7161.

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Contact: Steven M. Kleinfelter at (717) 531-3965, or Emma Inman at (717) 531-8606