Summer is here and with it comes one of the most beloved holidays, the 4th of July. For many of us, celebrating America’s Independence Day brings fond memories of barbeques, time with family and friends, and of course, fireworks. While fireworks can provide dazzling displays in the sky, they are still exceptionally dangerous and we, as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics, do not recommend buying fireworks for children or even adults.
A few cities in Orange County allow “state approved fireworks.” Please don’t be lulled into a false sense of safety by these “legal” fireworks, however, as they still can cause serious injuries and significant property damage. From mid-June through mid-July, there is an average of 200 emergency room visits for fireworks related injuries. Nearly half of the injuries are to hands and fingers. And nearly 20% are injuries to the eyes, one-third of which lead to permanent blindness.
Fortunately, Orange County has several spectacular fireworks shows that you and your family can enjoy safely, just to name a few cities: Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Aliso Viejo, San Clemente. And of course, once the sun sets, Disneyland illuminates the sky with their stunning fireworks show each night. Check your local newspaper for further details about fireworks shows nearby.
Hoag Medical Group would like to wish you and your family a wonderful and safe 4th of July.
Resources:
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/Stay-Safe-this-4th-of-July.aspx
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/108/1/190.full
