Tips to stay safe during firework season, how to prevent injury

CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) – Fireworks are synonymous with 4th of July celebrations, but according to Geisinger Registered Nurse Alex Haines, that also comes with an uptick in firework-related injuries.

“These injuries can be catastrophic,” Haines said.

The first step to preventing injury is keeping the fireworks out of the wrong hands.

“Fireworks are really only meant to be used by a professional handler,” Dr. William Wagner, a physician at Mt. Nittany Health , said. “Those under 14 years of age being about 30% of the (firework-related) injuries.”

Haines said that even sparklers can be dangerous to kids, with the average temperature of one being roughly “2000 degrees Fahrenheit.”

Burns from fireworks are not the only thing to watch out for. Fireworks can also be loud, leading both Haines and Wagner to recommend using ear protection on young children.

In the event an injury does occur, there are several steps to take. Wagner says to “stay cool” and assess the situation first. If the firework is still active, let it fizzle out for around 20 minutes before dunking it in cold water.

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Minor burns can be treated at home by running them under cool water and protecting the skin from infection. However, if the injury is severe enough, both medical professionals recommend calling 911.

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