Many injure hands, eyes using fireworks
| • | Firecracker permit sales fizzling instead of sizzling |
By Walter Wright
Advertiser Staff Writer
Last year some 11,000 people nationwide were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
"Fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries," said Honolulu Fire Chief Attilio K. Leonardi, citing the statistic.
About 55 percent of the injuries were burns, most of them on the hands, eyes and head. And almost four out of 10 people injured were children under 15, according to the study, which did not break down injuries by state.
"In a special study, the commission found that firecrackers, rockets and sparklers caused the bulk of the injuries," the chief said.
To reduce the chance of injury, the chief gave the following advice:
• Use only approved fireworks from a licensed retailer.
• Read and follow manufacturers' instructions.
• Make sure no one is within range before lighting a firework.
• Keep a garden hose or bucket of water nearby in case of fire.
• Children should use fireworks only under the direct supervision of an adult.
