How to avoid firework accidents

Orthopaedics and Fitness
fireworks with silhouetted people in the foreground watching

Philip M. Petrucelli, MD, orthopaedic hand and wrist surgeon at Main Line Health, says in his years of practice he's seen some severe and life-altering injuries that can occur as a result of improper firework use.

Schedule an appointment online with Dr. Petrucelli online

The consequences of a firework injury can be devastating, affecting not only the physical ability but also the quality of life. "Misuse of fireworks can cause burns, lacerations, fractures and sometimes amputations," says Dr. Petrucelli. "Your hand is a complex structure of bones, tissue and tendons. It is the most commonly injured part of the body when it comes to fireworks."

Often around holidays, emergency and trauma rooms see a surge in firework related injuries, with many involving the hands. Injuries often range from minor burns to severe trauma. In the case of severe hand trauma, orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation are often necessary.

Firework safety tips

Dr. Petrucelli stresses that fireworks should be left to be handled by the professionals, and that you should know that it is never safe to pick up a dud firework or attempt to relight a dud firework.

Children are naturally drawn to the bright colors and loud sounds of fireworks, making it crucial to teach them about safety, too. Start by explaining that fireworks are not toys and can cause serious injuries if not handled properly. Establish clear rules for when and where they can watch fireworks and make sure they understand the importance of following these guidelines.

"Children should never handle fireworks," says Dr. Petrucelli. "If you are viewing fireworks, always supervise children closely and ensure they maintain a safe distance from the fireworks." Even sparklers, which seem harmless, can burn at temperatures that are hot enough to melt some metals.

How to respond if a firework injury occurs

If an injury does occur, it's essential to act swiftly and calmly. For burns, the first step is to cool the affected area with running water for several minutes to reduce the heat and prevent further skin damage. Once the area is cooled, cover it with a clean, dry cloth or a sterile bandage to protect it from infection. Avoid using ice, as it can cause additional harm and refrain from applying any creams or ointments unless directed by a healthcare professional.

If the injury involves the eyes, avoid rubbing or rinsing them with water. Instead, cover the affected eye with a loose, sterile cloth or gauze and seek medical attention immediately. Eye injuries from fireworks can be particularly serious and prompt medical care is crucial.

For more severe injuries, such as deep cuts or severe trauma, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding and seek emergency medical assistance right away. Keep the injured person calm and still to avoid further aggravating the injury. It's always best to seek prompt medical attention in order to improve outcomes of a firework or sparkler injury.

"Viewing fireworks can bring joy," says Dr. Petrucelli. "Safety should always come first, though. The best way to enjoy fireworks is to let them remain handled by professionals and from safe distance."

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Philip M. Petrucelli, MD
Find an emergency room near you
Learn more about hand and wrist care at Main Line Health

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