Avoid Fireworks Injuries This Summer
Photographer: Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images
According to 2020 data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 15,600 people were treated in U.S. emergency departments for fireworks injuries, with 66% of injuries occurring in the month around the July 4th holiday.
Backyard fireworks, especially sparklers, also account for a high number of pediatric injuries each summer. In fact, the tip of a sparkler can reach over 1,000 degrees and while pretty, they are a considerable burn risk.
Michael A. Marano, MD, Medical Director at the Burn Center, at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, offers some safety tips:
- Use fireworks outside and away from homes/brush/leaves/flammable substances
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for malfunctioning and unused fireworks
- Keep fireworks out of the hands of children
- Wear protective eyewear when using or standing near fireworks
Meet Maryann, who has been chasing magic since the early 90s. Back then, she hosted a love and dedication show at nights on Magic. Talk about romantic vibes! Since then, she traded her evening slot for mornings. When she’s not talking to you on the air, she’s living the glamorous life of a chicken, duck, pigeon, and German Short-Haired Pointer mom. Since Joel can never follow what she says, there is an entire feature called " What are you Talking About" at 9:10. Running is her secret to staying out of trouble – or at least staying ahead of the extra pounds. She has a husband named Matt, and a son named Zack, who she says makes her world a little adventure.