July 3, 2020
By: Dwayne Page
Fireworks are a tradition of summer activities. Unfortunately, they cause thousands of injuries and emergency room visits each year; more of these injuries occur during Fourth of July festivities. As this year’s Independence Day approaches, the DeKalb County Fire Department urges citizens to practice safe and responsible use of fireworks to avoid injuries and property losses.
“Although fireworks can be exciting and fun, it is important to remember that improperly handled fireworks can quickly turn a celebration into tragedy,” said Chief Donny Green. “We remind DeKalb County citizens to use common sense and act responsibly to prevent serious injuries this Fourth of July.”
Each year in Tennessee, there are over 200 emergency room visits and over 200 people discharged from the hospital due to fireworks related injuries. Fireworks accidents can cause long term effects such as blindness, hearing loss and permanent scarring if used incorrectly.
To help you celebrate safely this Fourth of July, the DeKalb County Fire Department makes the following safety suggestions for those who choose to deal with fireworks at home:
• Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions.
• Never allow children to play with, ignite fireworks, or watch a display without adult supervision. • Wear eye protection and never have any part of your body over the fireworks.
• Use fireworks only outdoors and in a safe area.
• Be sure other people are safely out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Always have water handy–a garden hose, wet towels and a bucket.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals.
• Never re-light a “dud” firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then placing them in your trash can.
In addition to being prepared to avoid firework mishaps, residents should also be prepared to handle any accidents that may occur. Materials such as gauze, hydrogen peroxide and other first aid supplies should be readily available. In the event of serious injury, seek immediate medical attention . Quick response to injuries may prevent further and more permanent damage.
“We want all DeKalb County citizens and visitors to remain safe this holiday and enjoy their holiday accident-free,” said Green. “The best way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals. We have several public fireworks displays scheduled at local marinas on Center Hill Lake. It’s less expensive, more enjoyable, and much safer to just make plans to attend one of these local fireworks displays.”