Missing-Fingered Fools Filling the ER on the Fourth of July & the Day After
2023-07-05
For most, recovering from the Independence Day celebrations mean battling hangovers and BBQ cleanups. However, mishaps with fireworks and drug-addled shootouts are becoming the norm in modern-day America.
The Fourth of July is a day replete with patriotism, family get-togethers, barbecues, and, regrettably, the aftermath of fireworks-related injuries.
Many revel in the grandeur of the vibrant explosions adorning the night sky, but as we nurse our wounds on the 5th of July, it's time to face the grim realities of our pyrotechnic indulgence.
The Aftermath of Independence Day
The allure of fireworks is undeniable. Yet, the dangers they present can't be overlooked.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 15,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms and urgent care centers.
Strikingly, 66% of these injuries were clustered around the Fourth of July celebrations from late June to late July. These are sobering numbers that urge us to reconsider: Is the momentary spectacle really worth the risk?
Even more distressingly, fireworks accounted for an estimated 18 deaths in the same year, up from the 12 fatalities reported in the previous year. These figures represent more than mere statistics—these are real people, loved ones, lost to a tradition that's supposed to foster unity and joy.
What Are the Most Common Fireworks Injuries?
Most injuries from fireworks were burns, making up 44% of the cases, predominantly affecting the hands and fingers (29%). While severe burns and lost digits are the most shocking injuries, lacerations, contusions, and eye injuries are also common.
Remarkably, sparklers, which many consider a safer choice, were responsible for nearly 600 injuries in 2022. They may seem harmless, but they burn at a blistering 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals!
“The parts of the body most often injured by fireworks were hands and fingers (an estimated 29 percent of injuries) along with head, face, and ears (an estimated 19 percent); legs (an estimated 19 percent); and eyes (an estimated 16 percent).”—Consumer Product Safety Commission.
@Blackpilled4965 commented, “It should be titled ‘Irresponsible family puts neighborhood in danger, nearly avoiding serious injury or death.’”
Picking up the Pieces and Prioritizing Safety
In the wake of the Fourth of July celebrations, as we attend to our burns, bandage our wounds, or worse, grieve for lost ones, we're reminded of the very real danger that comes with this tradition.
As Ralph Apel, the National Council on Fireworks Safety spokesperson, puts it, "The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals."
Public displays of fireworks let us marvel at their beauty without facing the inherent risks. And if we choose to use fireworks at home, adult supervision, a safe distance, and not relight "dud" fireworks can prevent many accidents.
Although looking at that viral video, there were plenty of adults there supervising.
As we recover from this year's Fourth of July, let's pledge to make safety paramount in our future celebrations. Fireworks may be a festive tradition, but they should never come at the cost of our well-being.
Let's entrust the pyrotechnics to the professionals and commit to ensuring a safe and joyous Independence Day next year.
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About the author
Stephen Dalton is a native of Old Town, ME, and a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. He is a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Top Writer in Travel, Food, Fiction, Transportation, VR, NFL, Design, Creativity, Short Story, and a NewsBreak Community Voice Pro.
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