As we gear up for the 4th of July festivities, it's essential to prioritize safety while enjoying fireworks. At Hollywood Walk-In Clinic, we have seen our fair share of firework-related injuries, being one of the most visited walk-in clinics in the Los Angeles area. This post draws on critical statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's 2022 Fireworks Annual Report and practical safety tips from "Fireworks, Flames and Safety" by the Naval Safety Command. As Master Chief Aircraft Maintenanceman Chris Snow of the Naval Safety Command emphasizes, "Know the basics of fireworks safety. That way, nothing will get in the way of celebrating and you and your guests can remain safe."
Here are some vital statistics and safety tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this holiday:
Statistic: In 2022, an estimated 30% of fireworks injuries involved hands and fingers. Safety Tip: Always keep a safe distance when lighting fireworks and never hold a lit firework in your hand. If a firework does not go off, do not attempt to relight it. Instead, wait 5 to 10 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water. According to the Naval Safety Command, faulty fireworks can be particularly dangerous and should be treated with extreme caution to prevent burns and other injuries.
Statistic: Approximately 16% of fireworks injuries in 2022 affected the eyes. Safety Tip: Wearing protective eyewear can prevent debris from damaging your eyes. Never place any part of your body directly over a firework device when lighting the fuse and back up immediately after lighting. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highlights that eye injuries can be severe and may require immediate medical attention to prevent long-term damage.
Statistic: Burns accounted for 38% of the emergency department-treated injuries related to fireworks. Safety Tip: In the event of an accidental burn, start cooling the burn immediately under cool, clean running water for at least 3 to 5 minutes. Place a clean, dry towel on the wound and seek medical attention if necessary. Avoid using lotions, ointments, or creams on burns, as these can trap heat and worsen the injury. Knowing proper first aid for burns can significantly reduce the severity of the injury.
Statistic: Children under 5 years old experienced 9.5% of all fireworks-related injuries in 2022. Safety Tip: Always supervise children around fireworks, even sparklers, which can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that children maintain a safe distance from all types of fireworks. The Naval Safety Command advises that sparklers, often perceived as safe, can cause serious injuries to young children due to their high temperatures.
Statistic: Many severe injuries involve alcohol consumption during firework activities. Safety Tip: Never light fireworks after drinking alcohol. Ensure that someone who is sober and responsible is in charge of lighting fireworks. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries when handling fireworks.
Statistic: Public firework displays accounted for some injuries, even though they are generally safer. Safety Tip: Instead of buying fireworks, encourage your family and friends to attend public fireworks displays, which are typically monitored for safety by a local fire department. Public displays are usually conducted by professionals and are much safer than handling fireworks at home.
In case of any injuries, Hollywood Walk-In Clinic offers a range of services, including treatment for burns, fractures, and sprains. Our urgent care visit is priced at $115, and we provide services like rapid COVID-19 testing, EKG, and STD evaluations at affordable rates. Remember, for life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 first.
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Stay safe this 4th of July and enjoy the celebrations responsibly! For non-emergency medical assistance, visit us at Hollywood Walk-In Clinic, 6430 Selm
