NNMC Offers Safety Tips for Fourth of July Celebrations

By Cat DeBinder, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- National Navy Medical Center (NNMC) reminds patrons to put safety first as they celebrate the nation's 234th birthday during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

"The American traditions of parades, cookouts and fireworks help us celebrate the Fourth of July," said Nychelle Fleming, spokesperson for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). "However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children or adults are injured."

Fireworks, considered a hazardous substance by the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA), sent an estimated 7,000 people to emergency rooms in 2008, she said. The FHSA sets provisions under which the CPSC regulates products for consumers.

Sparklers, often considered to be the "safest" fireworks, can still be a hazard, burning at temperatures as high as 2,000 degrees, said Fleming.

Of the children who come into the emergency room with injuries associated with fireworks, more than half are caused by sparklers, said Nikki Poist, a registered nurse in NNMC's Emergency Room, recalling a time when she treated a 6-year-old girl with nearly third-degree burns on her hand as a result of a sparkler.

Poist added the most common areas of the body affected by accidents involving fireworks are the hands, face, head, ears and eyes.

When burned by a firework or sparkler, she said, it's important to react immediately.

"For second-degree or more serious fireworks burns, the first thing that should be done is to immerse the affected area in clean, cold water while arranging medical attention," said Poist. "Then, dry the burn gently, apply an antiseptic cream and wrap it in clean soft cloth, such as towels, sheets or gauze."

The affected area should also be elevated, she added, and the individual should be taken to the hospital or other medical treatment facility.

"Fireworks injuries can be avoided and prevented by following some common sense safety tips," said Julie Heckman, executive director of the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA).

The APA is the leading trade association of the fireworks industry. The organization supports and promotes safety standards for all aspects of fireworks.

Heckman also stated it's important to read and follow the directions when celebrating with fireworks. There should always be an adult supervising children around fireworks and there should not be more than one lit at a time. She went on to say people should not add alcohol into the mix and should be careful to stay out of the line of fire.

"Have plenty of water nearby — keep a bucket to soak finished sparklers and other hot devices," said Heckman. "Also keep a garden hose in the area for emergencies."