The Fourth of July holiday is quickly approaching which means firework and other accident-prone activities are right around the corner.
Lyndsay Deeter, MD at Banner Health's Western States Burn Center in Greeley offers the following tips to avoid painful, and costly, emergency room or urgent care visits this Fourth of July.
"The best way to avoid firework burns completely is to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals", said Dr. Deeter. "For perspective, a sparkler burns at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the 212 degrees Fahrenheit of boiling water“ that's hot! But, if your Fourth of July holiday isn't complete without a sparkler selfie or bottle rocket shoot off, here are a few tips for safe fun or what to do if a burn occurs."
If someone is burned during your Fourth of July shenanigans, know the difference between first-degree, second-degree and third-degree burns:
First-degree burns look like a sunburn; pink or red in coloration and can be treated with a cool cloth, cool running water and lotion.
Second- and third-degree burns will include pink/red coloration but will also have blistering or breaking in skin. These burns warrant an immediate trip to the ER or urgent care.
On the drive to the facility, use a wet, cool cloth to stop the burn from retaining heat and causing infection or swelling.
Do NOT use ice to treat a burn! Ice can cause frostbite and permanent damage to the already sensitive skin area.
Keep a bucket of water close by when setting off fireworks to use for proper disposal.
Have a designated, sober adult be responsible for setting off fireworks.
Keep children and pets a safe distance from fireworks in case of spontaneous combustions.
Don't re-light a firework that has already been set off or isn't working.
This release was written and sent by Amanda Ford Account Executive at WildRock Public Relations & Marketing® (Thank you!)
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