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As celebrations pick up during this year's Fourth of July, UPMC Williamsport urges the public to take a pause to remember safety precautions.
"I'm hoping we don't see a rise (in injury) in 2021. …We need to remember that fireworks are explosives, keep that in the back of your head when dealing with fireworks," said Annalisa Negrea, UPMC's injury prevention coordinator.
One common mistake people make with fireworks is trying to relight a "dead firework." This is known to result in unexpected explosions. As people try to relight what they believe to be an unlit firework, they can find themselves in close contact with an ignited firework.
"Never try to relight a 'dead firework.' Put it in a metal bucket full of water for a 12 hour period, and then dispose of it properly," explained Negrea.
Common injuries from fireworks include burns to hands, fingers and limbs.
"Every year in the two weeks preceding and following the Fourth of July, we see about 70% of all the firework-related injuries that occur throughout the year," said Dr. Jenny Ziembicki, director of UPMC said in an article on UPMC's website.
Fireworks not only are a threat for injury, but can also be a fire hazard if not handled correctly.
"Fireworks should be lit outside in an area without flammable branches or grass. Have a water hose or bucket of water handy to extinguish spent fireworks. After you light a firework, get away at a safe distance. Don't try to hold a firework in your hand after it's lit, and do not light it into a container of any kind. Only responsible adults should light fireworks," Said Ronen Elefant, MD in UPMC's list of Tips to Enjoy Summer Safely.
The most effective way to avoid injury is to take precautions.
"You're dealing with fire and you're dealing with explosives. … Keep in mind, irresponsible handling (of fireworks) can result in physical injury," Said Negrea.