June is Fireworks Safety Month and a great time to review safe fireworks practices, especially with the 4^th of July fast approaching.

In 2016, at least four people died and about 11,100 had injuries requiring medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, as reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While many of these cases were due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, thousands were from less powerful devices such as small firecrackers and sparklers.

If you can legally purchase fireworks where you live and you choose to use them, be sure to follow the following safety tips:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks
• Know your fireworks – read labels and descriptions before igniting
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should only be allowed to use fireworks under close adult supervision
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eye-wear
• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks
• Avoid drinking alcohol while lighting fireworks
• Never light fireworks indoors
• Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from people, houses, vehicles, and flammable materials
• Only light one firework at a time and then quickly maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Never ignite fireworks inside a container
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks

“Fourth of July celebrations are a pastime many of us enjoy with family and friends. If fireworks are part of your celebration, please make safety a priority,” advises Stephanie Waterman, Family Practice Nurse Practitioner at the Roberts location. “In addition to the above tips, never leave children alone with fireworks, including sparklers. Even sparklers can reach temperatures as hot as a blow torch!”

In the event that an emergency does occur, the Emergency Department at WW Health is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. From minor illnesses to life-threatening conditions, our team of experts provides care for patients of any age for a wide range of conditions and injuries. This may include stitches, sprains, strains, sore throats, ear infections, as well as more serious conditions such as cardiac events, stroke, infections, and trauma. Should your condition require more specialized care, a transfer will be arranged in collaboration with our local EMS services. Learn more at wwhealth.org or call us at 715-684-1111.