Stay Safe: Exercise Caution with Fireworks and Sparklers

Stay Safe: Exercise Caution with Fireworks and Sparklers

Y4c5dkn6MhfDIT7QhGg2T6Gf1q” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that in 2023, eight people lost their lives and nearly 10,000 were treated in emergency departments due to fireworks-related injuries.

Dr. Jesse Bracamonte, a family medicine physician at Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the importance of exercising caution when using personal fireworks.

“Fourth of July firework injuries are quite common, particularly chemical burns from the fireworks themselves. It’s crucial to remember that fireworks are explosives. Common injuries include hand injuries, eye injuries, and skin burns,” says Dr. Bracamonte.

Watch: Dr. Jesse Bracamonte urges caution when using fireworks and sparklers

Journalists: Broadcast-quality sound bites with Dr. Bracamonte are available in the downloads at the end of the post. Please courtesy: “Mayo Clinic News Network.” Name super/CG: Jesse Bracamonte, D.O./Family Medicine/Mayo Clinic.

According to the CPSC, teenagers had the highest rate of emergency department visits due to fireworks in 2023, followed by children aged 5 to 9. All types of fireworks, including sparklers, pose potential dangers.

“If families choose to use fireworks, they must exercise extreme caution. Fireworks are highly explosive and can cause burns. Ensure that an adult with experience handles the fireworks in a safe location,” advises Dr. Bracamonte. “I strongly recommend that children not be allowed to play with fireworks due to their explosive nature and the risk of injury.”

What to Do in Case of Fireworks Injury

Stay Safe: Exercise Caution with Fireworks and Sparklers