This week, we will celebrate the Fourth of July with community parades, picnics, barbecues, and fireworks - the things of which happy memories are made. But sadly, Independence Day also includes tragic events resulting from fireworks use. Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat thousands of adults and children for fireworks-related injuries.
Fireworks also cause serious injuries, including devastating burns and other injuries to children. The National Fire Protection Association reports that sparklers, which burn at about 1,200°F and are typically viewed by parents as relatively harmless fireworks for children, cause serious burn injuries, accounting for one-third of the injuries to children under five. The best way to protect your family is to attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.