LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Doctors and first responders share the same message every Fourth of July — be careful with fireworks.
As the nation gets ready to celebrate its independence, doctors warn that even sparklers can be dangerous if not handled properly.
"Sparklers, while a lot of fun, can be very dangerous. They burn at 1,200 degrees, which is the same melting temperature as aluminum. So you can imagine your aluminum soda can melting in your hand, it produces a burn to the hand almost instantaneously," Dr. Ryan Shapiro, a plastic surgeon with UofL Health, said. "And for small kids, often they don't understand that when the sparkler burns, how hot that is, and they'll touch it because they're intrigued and they think it's something interesting and neat."
Nationwide, nearly 10,000 people ended up in the emergency room last year because of fireworks.
Experts recommend setting off fireworks on flat surfaces only, to leave them alone for a while after they go off, and to soak them in water when you're done.
If you do get hurt, doctors want you to know these tips: If a burn blisters, it could be severe, and if you have problems with your vision after setting off fireworks, you should see a doctor.
Related Stories:
- 7 tips to help you navigate the expected record-setting July 4 holiday travel weekend
- Fireworks and fun events in Louisville and southern Indiana for 4th of July celebration
- 5th Annual Stars, Stripes & Pints Blood Drive in Louisville July 2 & 3
- Louisville Orchestra to celebrate the holiday weekend with the Independence Day Weekend Concert
- KDF, WDRB partner to bring Thunder Over Louisville to US troops overseas this Independence Day
- Celebrate the Fourth of July in Paristown with music, a market, donuts and more
Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
