Health officials recommend having a plan in place before lighting fireworks

BELLEVUE, Wash. — The Washington State Fire Police advises those setting off fireworks around the Fourth of July to exercise caution.

Officials said people should not let children light fireworks, should keep a bucket of water nearby as a precaution, and should not re-ignite or pick up unburnt fireworks.

According to a releaseIn 2022, there were fewer reported fireworks-related fires and injuries than in 2021. In 2022, there were 508 reported incidents, compared with 912 in 2021. Of those 508, 198 were reported. injured.

Overlake Medical Center says that over the past few years, they’ve seen fewer fireworks-related injuries than before — a hopeful sign, although when injuries do occur, they can be serious.

“Unfortunately, when we do see wounds, they tend to be more severe and can leave scars or disfigurement,” says Overlake Emergency Physician Dr. “The main injuries we see are hand injuries, either because people are handling fireworks incorrectly or they think the fireworks should have gone off, they are trying to re-light or test it and unfortunately sometimes they put it very close to the face. “

Tudor encourages people to enjoy public fireworks shows, but if they’re lighting their own legal fireworks, keep a few tips in mind. He recommends planning ahead what the team will do if someone gets hurt, making sure the person setting off the fireworks isn’t under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and if someone is seriously injured, seek help. expert help.

They also tend to see fireworks burns in children – and says toddlers shouldn’t be handling them, says the director of the Trauma and Registered Nurse Program at Overlake Medical Center Karen Kettner.

Along with fireworks-related injuries, drunk driving remains a concern during the holidays. Before going to a gathering, plan to get home safely if you want to drink.