Experts Urge Americans to Prioritize Safety Over Fourth of July Holiday

The Fourth of July holiday is known for its festive events, including firework shows. The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) is reminding people the dangers of fireworks. 

The annual fireworks report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission found than 10,000 fireworks-related injuries were treated in emergency rooms in the US in 2022. Of the injuries, 73% occurred in the months of June and July and almost 20% impacted the head, neck or upper extremities.  

AAFPRS members say fireworks-related injuries can lead to significant facial trauma requiring extensive reconstructive surgery that aim to repair burns and other injuries.

Here are some safety tips for anyone planning to use fireworks over the upcoming Fourth of July holiday:

• Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. 
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of a fire or other mishaps.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.

“Hospital emergency rooms often witness an increase in facial trauma cases due to fireworks, including severe burns, lacerations, visual impairment, and hearing loss,” Sherard A. Tatum, MD, facial plastic surgeon and president of the AAFPRS, said. “Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons specialized in treating patients needing post-traumatic reconstruction procedures. Given the complexity of facial reconstructive surgery, we always recommend patients to ‘trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon.’”