Firework Safety Key On Fourth

It’s the Fourth of July and fireworks injuries are a concern to local health providers.

Last year Cookeville Regional Medical Center saw a decrease in fireworks related injuries. Emergency Room Physician Ken Colaric said two main injuries he sees are superficial burns and eye injuries.

“Eye protection is obviously very important,” Colaric said. “Never stand over any sort of firework you’re lighting, always stand to the side of it in case it inadvertently detonates or discharges early. You don’t want to be standing over the top of it, always approach it from the side.”

Colaric said if you are injured, apply a cold compress on the affected area. He said seek medical attention as soon as possible in the event of an eye injury.

“We have to determine whether or not it’s a surface or a scratch injury type to the eye, or whether this is some sort of a penetrating injury to the eye,” Colaric said. “All eye injuries need to come to the emergency department. Any significant burns warrant evaluation in the emergency department or some sort of emergency care center.”

Keep fireworks out of reach from children and pets, and don’t drink alcohol and set fireworks off. Colaric said avoid dry vegetation in the nearby vicinity.