For many adults and children, fireworks are a tradition of summer activities.  However, fireworks cause thousands of injuries and emergency room visits each year.  According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”) approximately 16% of all consumer fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers burning hands and legs, with the majority of sparkler injuries to children.” 

Kleinert Kutz Hand Care Center wants everyone to have a safe and happy Fourth of July.  “People should know the risk they face when using fireworks,” said Huey Tien, M.D.  “Fireworks can be very dangerous and the best way to prevent fireworks related injuries is to leave the fireworks display to trained professionals.  Improperly handling fireworks can turn a celebration into a tragedy.”

Kleinert Kutz Hand Care Center strongly recommends leaving the fireworks to the professionals.  However, if you choose to deal with fireworks at home, be sure to follow these important safety tips:

• Use fireworks only outdoors and in a safe area
• Always buy fireworks from a reliable source
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks or watch a display without adult supervision
• Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions
• Never re-light a “dud” firework
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies
• Wear closed toed shoes
• Dispose of all fireworks properly

As this year’s Independence Day approaches, Kleinert Kutz urges the community to practice safe and responsible use of fireworks to avoid injuries.