Orthopaedic surgeons offer tips for using fireworks this Fourth of July

Rosemont, IL – Adults planning to use fireworks to celebrate Independence Day should take precautions to remain safe, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Roughly 21,692 people were treated for injuries related to fireworks in 2011, an AAOS press release stated. The organization offers the following safety tips:

  • Do not allow children to use fireworks.
  • Keep water nearby in case of fire.
  • Follow the label on the packaging before using.
  • Wear protective eyewear.
  • Move ignited fireworks away from the body.
  • Soak used fireworks in water.
  • Never handle fireworks while drinking alcohol.
  • If injured, seek medical attention immediately.

Post a comment to this article

Safety+Health welcomes comments that promote respectful dialogue. Please stay on topic. Comments that contain personal attacks, profanity or abusive language – or those aggressively promoting products or services – will be removed. We reserve the right to determine which comments violate our comment policy. (Anonymous comments are welcome; merely skip the “name” field in the comment box. An email address is required but will not be included with your comment.)