During the Independence Day holiday, emergency rooms in Lincoln and Omaha reported treating over 36 fireworks-related injuries. These injuries included burns, lacerations, and contusions, with a focus on the eyes, face, and hands of patients ranging in age from young children to older adults.
Emergency room staff and trauma teams are urging the public to exercise caution when handling fireworks to prevent injuries. According to the Nebraska Safety Council, following the instructions on the packaging is the simplest way to avoid accidents.
The Nebraska Safety Council advises that people should never point fireworks at other people or animals, should keep a safe distance from them while lighting them off, and should never throw or aim them at anything other than a target designated for their use. They also suggest that people should always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an accident.
As Independence Day approaches, it’s important for everyone to remember that fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. By following these simple safety tips, we can help ensure that our celebrations remain fun and festive without causing harm.