Keeping Safe When Setting Off Fireworks

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CLEVELAND - The Fourth of July is tomorrow, and that means lots of food, fun and fireworks. 

If you’re planning to set off fireworks, it’s important to be careful. 

“Every year we end up with a lot of injuries, a lot more than we would like to see. And the most common injuries are usually to the hand or fingers. The other most common places: the face, the ears, and the general area up here. So very, very dangerous,” said Allan Capin, MD, with Cleveland Clinic Florida.

Dr. Capin said fireworks really should be left to the professionals, but if you are going to use them, consider the following tips. 

First, check the laws where you live.

Every city and state have different rules when it comes to what's legal. 

Next, be sure to wear protective gear and safety glasses. 

As for location, pick an open area with a hard, flat surface away from buildings, vehicles or anything flammable. 

Only light one firework at a time. 

You should also have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher on hand. 

Finally, if a fireworkdoesn’t go off, do notattemptto light it again. 

Instead, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then soak it in water. 

After that, wrap it in plastic and throw it away. 

“The other topic that'svery common is the involvement of children. It'svery important that children do not get involved at all. Even sparklers, which are very popular, tend to burn at about 2,000 degrees and they can cause a lot of injury. It's enough to melt a piece of metal. But we do have safer alternatives for children, which are usually party poppers, snaps, or silly strings. Those are things that they can use that they could still enjoy and celebrate with and be included in the festivities,” he advised.

Dr. Capin said if you do suffer a minor burn from a firework, do not put ice on it as that can make it even worse. 

Instead, wash the burn under cool water. 

If the pain persists or you have any other injuries, be sure to get medical care.