FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORT
MYERS, Fla. (July 2, 2002) – Lee County Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) is encouraging residents and visitors to observe basic fireworks safety
tips this July 4th to avoid a trip to the emergency room.
According to the National
Center for Injury Prevention and Control:
All fireworks are dangerous,
especially to children. In 2000,
11,000 people were treated in U.S. emergency departments for fireworks-related
injuries. Children 14 years and younger sustained about 50% of injuries
related to fireworks, and boys were hurt twice as often as girls.
Typically, three quarters of injuries from fireworks in the United States
occur in the days surrounding the July 4th holiday.
Injuries from fireworks most
often affect the hands, face, and eyes. A
few injuries are serious enough to require amputation.
In 2000, 10 people died from injuries due to fireworks.
The Consumer Product Safety
Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety offer the following
safety tips:
Always read and follow label directions.
Have an adult present.
Buy from reliable sellers.
Use outdoors only.
Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
Light only one firework at a time.
Never re-light a “dud” firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak in a bucket of water).
Never give fireworks to small children.
If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.
Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
Stay away from illegal explosives.
Note to media: Capt. Dave Wheaton with Lee County EMS is available for interviews on this topic. He can be reached at 335-1661.