Preventing firework injuries
As we celebrate America’s independence this Fourth of July, we remind you to be careful. While fireworks can be a lot of fun, they can also be very dangerous. Every year many children are injured while watching or trying to set off fireworks. We have compiled some fireworks safety facts to help you keep your family safe this weekend.
- Always closely supervise children around fireworks and keep young children at a distance. Remember that little kids are drawn to the bright lights, bright colors, and sparkling of many fireworks. They may try to grab a firework before it is launched.
- Fireworks are most likely to injure the hands, fingers, head, face, ears, belly and eyes.
- Sparklers are very hot–up to 3000 degrees HOT! They can cause serious and painful burns. Use glow sticks instead!
- Do not wear loose clothing when lighting fireworks.
- Do not light fireworks indoors, near dry grass, or towards your roof. They can be a fire hazard.
- Always point fireworks away from people.
- Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby when lighting fireworks.
- Remember, the best way to keep your family safe with fireworks is not to use any fireworks at home.
The Radiology Department at Cincinnati Children’s wishes you and your family a very happy and safe Fourth of July!