Celebrate the summer holidays with caution

Celebrate the summer holidays with caution

The summer season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is full of celebrations that often include fireworks. Festivals, weddings, and  of course, July 4th would not be the same without these explosive festivities. And while they bring joy and entertainment to many, they can also be dangerous.

Facial plastic surgeons treat more than their fair share of individuals who have been injured by fireworks. These facial trauma surgeries and burn repairs are often extensive and can leave lasting damage—but yet, they are 100 percent preventable.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission annual report, 250 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4 holiday. More than three-quarters of these injuries occur on the head, neck, or upper extremities. The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that facial trauma is the fourth top reconstructive facial plastic surgery performed in 2018.

Safety tips

• Check to see if fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using

• Keep children away from fireworks

• Keep children away from fireworks

• Adult supervision is mandatory, even with sparklers

• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket, friction could set them off

• Wear protective eye gear

• Never light a fuse with your head bent over a firework

• Do not consume drugs or alcohol when using fireworks

• Light fireworks one at a time and then move away quickly

• Light fireworks outdoors only

• Never try to re-light or pick up a firework that has not ignited fully

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person or animal

• Aim fireworks away from homes, brush, leaves, and flammable substances

• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or another mishap

• Soak all used fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing away

• Do not allow children to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event, they may be hot or still ignited and explosive

• Leave it to the professionals and attend a public fireworks display from a safe distance

Facial injury

Fireworks can cause burns and serious injury to the eyes, skin, and ears. Prompt medical attention is critical. If you get injured, put a clean cloth over the injury, keep your head above your heart, and seek emergency care immediately. Request a consultation from a facial plastic surgeon. These specialists are trained to treat patients who require posttraumatic reconstruction procedures due to summer-related accidents like firework injuries. Facial trauma is complex; facial burns can be severe and require surgery to treat. You want to avoid unsightly permanent facial scars, so be sure to trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon. Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed; however, you will enjoy them much more knowing your family and friends are safe by following these guidelines.