Fireworks safety: How to prevent burn injuries this Independence Day

UTMB Blocker Burn Unit urges caution ahead of July Fourth celebrations

Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition for many families, but they also send thousands of people to emergency departments each year. Specialists at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) Blocker Burn Unit encourage everyone celebrating Independence Day to take simple precautions that can help prevent serious injuries.

"Many of the burns we treat happen in just a few seconds and involve the hands, face, or eyes," said Carlos Jimenez, MD, FACS, Medical Director, Burn Surgery/BICU. "The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, following basic safety precautions can significantly reduce your risk of injury."

Fireworks safety tips

Do

• Do keep a safe distance from all fireworks.
• Do have a sober adult light fireworks.
• Do light one firework at a time, then move away quickly.
• Do keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
• Do follow all local and state fireworks laws.

Don't

• Do not allow children to handle fireworks, including sparklers.
• Do not hold or throw lit fireworks.
• Do not attempt to relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
• Do not use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Even sparklers can be dangerous. They burn at temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit - hot enough to cause severe burns in seconds.

If a burn occurs

1. Cool the burn with cool, running water. Do not use ice or very cold water.
2. Remove jewelry and loose clothing near the burn, if they are not stuck to the skin.
3. Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or dressing.
4. Seek medical attention if the burn is severe or if you are concerned about the injury, especially if it involves the face, hands, feet, genitals, or large areas of skin, or if the injured person is a child.

When to seek medical care

Prompt medical evaluation is recommended if:

• The burn involves the face, hands, feet, eyes, or a major joint.
• The skin is blistered, charred, white, or leathery.
• The burn covers a large area.
• The injury was caused by an explosion or high-impact firework.
• There are signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, or drainage.
• You're ever unsure about the severity of a burn.

Specialized burn care at UTMB

The Blocker Burn Unit at UTMB provides comprehensive care for adults and children with burn injuries, from emergency treatment through rehabilitation. As a Verified Burn Center, the program meets national standards for burn care and brings together specialists in burn surgery, wound care, critical care, and rehabilitation to support patients through every stage of recovery.

Burn injuries differ from many other injuries because they can damage the skin's protective barrier, increase the risk of infection, and, in severe cases, affect deeper tissues. Recovery often requires ongoing treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up care to help patients heal and regain function.

Learn more about the Blocker Burn Unit and burn care services at UTMB.

Celebrate safely

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.

"Fireworks can cause life-changing injuries in an instant," said Jimenez. "A few simple precautions can help keep your celebration safe and ensure the holiday ends with lasting memories instead of a trip to the emergency department."