Independence Day is quickly approaching, and chances are you’ve already heard late-night booms, pops and fizzles that come with fireworks. While sparklers, bottle rockets and other festive fireworks are a staple of summer celebrations, they also injure thousands of people every year.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that, in 2023, 9,700 people visited emergency rooms for fireworks injuries. Most of those injuries – 66% – happened in the weeks before or after July 4. The most commonly injured part of the body? Hands and fingers.
SSM Health hand surgeon Dr. Morgan Weber says she sees these injuries every summer, including serious burns and even amputations.
“I’ve seen how even little fireworks have the power to blow off fingers and hands or worse,” said Dr. Weber. “So, this is really serious stuff.”
Weber’s number one tip is attending local municipal fireworks displays instead of using fireworks at home. If you plan to celebrate with at-home fireworks, she recommends these safety tips from the CPSC:
If you’ve been injured by fireworks, Weber advises getting medical help immediately. She says often there is more going on with a wound than people realize and waiting could result in serious infection, amputation, or permanent reduction in the ability to use hands and fingers. In case of a medical emergency, find an SSM Health Urgent Care or Emergency Room near you.
- Don’t let kids handle, ignite or play with fireworks – including sparklers
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before you buy or use them
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or mishap
- Always light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly after ignition
- Never re-light or pick up “dud” fireworks or fireworks that haven’t fully ignited
- Never use fireworks when drinking alcohol or while impaired by other drugs
If you’ve been injured by fireworks, Weber advises getting medical help immediately. She says often there is more going on with a wound than people realize and waiting could result in serious infection, amputation, or permanent reduction in the ability to use hands and fingers. In case of a medical emergency, find an SSM Health Urgent Care or Emergency Room near you.
- Fireworks. (2024, February 26). U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks
