What should we do to prevent firework injuries?

It's important to be safe around fireworks during your Fourth of July celebrations. Here are some ways to prevent firework injuries:

• First, enjoying fireworks at a professional display is by far, the safest way to celebrate
• If you do choose to light your own fireworks:
• A responsible, sober adult should supervise all fireworks activities
• Children should not handle fireworks or sparklers
• Keep plenty of water on hand and a hose for soaking used firework debris
• If a firework fails to explode, never touch it in an attempt to relight it. Leave it alone for 20 minutes, and soak it in water overnight before throwing it away

What about sparklers?

People are often surprised to hear that sparklers are quite dangerous.

• Sparklers account for the majority of fireworks related injuries treated at Gundersen Health System
• Consider substituting glow sticks for sparklers for children. Short arms cannot hold sparklers far enough away to prevent burns to the face and body
• Sparklers burn at 1800 degrees F, this is very hot (hot enough to melt glass), certainly hot enough to cause burns, ignite clothing or hair

If you would like to learn more on how to stay safe for your kids this summer visit Safe Kids Coalition.