As July 4th approaches, we want to make sure that families around Oklahoma can celebrate safely. The Alexander Burn Center at Hillcrest treats around 50 burn cases within the week of the holiday. Weera Chainakul, M.D., FACS, medical director at the burn center, said these burns range from 2nd degree burns with painful blistering to 4th degree burns that could lead to amputation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
What should you do if you are burned?
- Rinse the affected area with lukewarm water
- Never rinse the area with cold or ice water
- Remove tight items like rings or watches from the burned area
- Cover the area with a clean, dry bandage
- Seek medical attention
Dr. Chainakul said if the burn has concerning drainage or you are experiencing fever, vomiting or severe pain, you should seek medical help.
How can you prevent injury from fireworks?
Dr. Chainakul reminds everyone of the Three P’s of firework injury prevention:
People
- Leave the handling of fireworks to adults; keep small children and pets away. Supervise children at all times.
- Don’t consume alcohol or drugs when lighting fireworks.
- Tie back long hair.
- Wear closed-toe, well-fitting shoes and avoid loose-fitting clothing that could dangle and catch fire.
Place
- Check on any fire bans in your location.
- Light fireworks with long matches and on a smooth flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves or brush, and any other flammable material.
- Never use gasoline or other accelerant around fireworks.
- Have a hose or bucket of water available nearby.
Product
- Avoid sparklers, which can reach 1,200 degrees or higher. Consider safer alternatives for children such as confetti poppers, glow sticks or colored streamers.
- After lighting a firework, stand at least 10 feet away to reduce the risk of being struck by a firework.
- Never stand directly over a firework or hold lit fireworks.
- Do not aim or throw fireworks at people.
- If a firework malfunctions (“dud”), it’s best to discard it. Always douse water on the firework before discarding to avoid a trash fire.
If you are burned and need non-emergent medical care, please call 918-579-4580.