Bangor, Maine, St. Joseph Healthcare – The fireworks display over the Penobscot River in Bangor is a treat we look forward to each year. We enjoy getting outside, mowing the lawn, BBQ’s, and a variety of water activities- swimming, fishing, and kayaking to name a few.
Staying safe can help ensure that we all have tons of fun this Fourth of July. Each year, we have an increase in the number of children and adults needing medical care around the use of fireworks. With a little preparation, we can keep our community safe.
James Hildebrand, MD, FACEP, Department of Emergency Medicine at St. Joseph Healthcare, shares some tips for staying safe this holiday weekend. “Respect fireworks! Every year, thousands of Americans are treated in emergency departments around the country for firework injuries. The vast majority of these occur during the one-month period around July Fourth. Just because they’re readily accessible doesn’t make them safe, they are still explosives. Wear eye protection, keep them away from children, never mix fireworks with alcohol consumption, and have a fire extinguisher or water source on hand at all times. The majority of the injuries are burns and trauma to the face and eyes or hands/fingers. Sadly, real-life doesn’t mimic television, and most fingers cannot be reattached as seen on TV!”
Here are five reminders to keep you and your children safe with sparklers:
- Only use sparklers (or any firework) outside
- Children should be supervised, with close supervision for children under 12
- Be aware of where you are and where the sparkler is. Sparklers should be kept at arm’s length and be sure to maintain a 6-foot distance from others using sparklers.
- Avoid running, throwing or handing a sparkler to another person
- Have a bucket of water nearby to place sparkers in to avoid bare feet or hands from coming in contact when sparklers are still hot
We wish you a wonderful holiday. Remember to have fun and look out for each other.
In an emergency, always call 9-1-1. Our Emergency Department is here when you need us, 24-hours a day. Learn more about our Emergency Department.