From the ArcaMax Publishing, Parents Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/parents/s-574466-227803
ROSEMONT, Ill. (UPI) -- The United States' Independence Day
celebrations bring an annual warning from doctors -- leave the
fireworks to professionals.
Fourth of July fireworks always draw a crowd but those beautiful
bursts of color can lead to catastrophic injuries if not used with
care, Dr. James C. Krieg, spokesman of the American Academy of
Orthopedic Surgeons, said.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says last year more than
15,000 fireworks-related injuries were treated -- 8,000 involving
children under 18. The total cost for medical expenses, legal
expenses, work loss, and pain and suffering resulting from those
injuries equaled more than $5.4 million, the commission says.
"Fireworks can be used safely by trained adults, but illegal
firecrackers or ones that are used improperly present substantial
risks," Krieg said in a statement. "If fireworks misfire or explode
prematurely, the extreme amount of force can tear or destroy tissue,
including bones and nerves, causing permanent damage."
Krieg recommendations:
-- Check with local police to determine which fireworks can be
discharged legally in your area.
-- Never buy illegal fireworks. Their quality cannot be assured.
-- Never hold lighted fireworks.
-- Never allow young children to play with or go near fireworks,
including sparklers. They seem harmless but sparklers can reach
temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.