According to a news release from Regions Hospital, "Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate Independence Day, but they can also be dangerous if they are not handled properly. Every year, hospitals treat thousands of patients for injuries to their eyes, ears and hands from fireworks. Thirteen people were treated for fireworks-related injuries at Regions Hospital on or around the Fourth of July in 2007."
“Even fireworks that are legal in Minnesota can be dangerous,” said Dr. William Mohr, medical director of the Regions Hospital Burn Center, in the release. “The fireworks that we consider to be relatively safe, such as sparklers, still burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and can pose a major safety hazard, especially to children.”
The release said: Children account for a large percentage of the fireworks-related injuries that hospitals see. A study conducted by the U.S. Fire Administration in 2005 found that children under 15 years old accounted for about 45 percent of the injuries due to fireworks in that year. To ensure safety, Dr. Mohr recommends attending a community event where fireworks are handled by professionals.
If you do decide to light fireworks this Fourth of July weekend it is important to keep these safety tips in mind:
* Never let children handle, play with or light fireworks.
* Set off fireworks on a hard, level surface in a clear, open area.
* Light fireworks one at a time, and stand clear of them as they go off.
* Do not try to re-light or fix a “dud” firework; let it sit for about 20 minutes and then immerse it in water.
Regions Hospital is a Level 1 Trauma Center and teaching hospital serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin for more than 130 years. Regions is a premier, full-service, private hospital providing outstanding medical and surgical care with special programs in heart, women's care, cancer, orthopedics, neurology, burn and emergency care. Regions is part of the HealthPartners family of health care organizations. More information about the hospital is available at www.regionshospital.com.