Did you know thousands of people are hurt from fireworks every year?
If you’re not careful you could be spending the holiday in the ER instead of with your family.
Dr. Charles Bayouth, Trauma Medical Director at Covenant Health, says unfortunately that’s a reality that can easily happen.
“Fourth of July and fireworks accidents are very common,” Dr. Bayouth explained. “We routinely will see significant hand and eye injuries as a result of fireworks, maybe amputations or disfigurements.”
Dr. Bayouth says this time of year they see a lot of burns and alcohol-related injuries.
“People are out having a good time, which is a great thing, but realize what the limits are and be responsible,” Dr. Bayouth said.
That goes to all outdoor activities, especially if you’re planning a trip to the lake.
“When people are out on the boat all day having a great time and then all the sudden they start doing things careless and reckless then people get hurt,” Dr. Bayouth explained.
And if you’re stuck on the lake and an emergency happens, there’s steps you can take to save someone’s life.
“Everyday people bleed to death and that is the most preventable part of trauma that can save a life is stop the bleed,” said Dr. Bayouth. “Remember you ABC’s. A is activate help so call 911, B is identify the bleeding and C is compression.”
Dr. Bayouth says those steps make a big impact on saving someone’s life.
Remember that fireworks are illegal inside city limits.
Always be responsible around fireworks, keep kids away and keep a bucket nearby so you don’t start a fire.
