When an emergency strikes, turn to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s full-service, state-of-the-art emergency departments
Our facilities are equipped to handle any medical emergency.
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SubscribeWho doesn’t love fireworks on the Fourth of July? They’re the perfect addition to any cookout and are considered a staple in any Independence Day celebration.
However, it’s important to make sure we’re celebrating safety, too.
Fireworks-related injuries are the most common on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July.
In fact, 280 people on average go to the emergency department every day in the month around the Fourth of July holiday.
Fireworks can cause injuries including burns, lacerations and foreign objects in the eye, and death. Make the choice to protect yourself and your family from fireworks injuries by following these tips.
There are more than 1 million burn injuries in the United States per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Typically, adults ages 18-35 are the most affected.
More than 53% of injuries sustained last year by fireworks were burns.
In fact, sparklers, which are often thought to be benign, can burn at up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. (For context, water begins boiling at 120 degrees.)
It’s important to know that there are three types of burns: first-degree, second-degree and third-degree.
A first-degree burn is also called a superficial burn or wound.
A second-degree burn is more serious because the damage extends beyond the top layer of skin.
A third-degree burn is the most severe.
Most of the fireworks-related injuries we see in the Emergency Department at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center involve extremities.
Here are tips to avoid common injuries:
Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you'll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe.
Our facilities are equipped to handle any medical emergency.
Find a location near you