Fun, food and fireworks are all part of the recipe for honoring America on Independence Day, but adding a pinch of burn
safety will help keep your celebration enjoyable.
Dr. Derek Culnan, the Medical Director for the Mississippi Burn, Hand, & Reconstruction Center at Baptist Medical
Center in Jackson, MS, said his team sees a mixture of large and small burns, as well as injuries to the hands and other
extremities, from Independence Day celebrations. With this year’s holiday falling on a long weekend, he expects an even
busier burn center.
“These injuries usually have one thing in common: carelessness,” he said. “With scalding hot surfaces and exploding
rockets in play, you cannot let your guard down even for a second.”
More fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. In
2022, fireworks were the source for more than 31,000 fires, including 3,500 structure fires, according to the National Fire
Protection Association. The NFPA also reported more than 10,000 people were seen in emergency rooms across the nation, with a third of those being children.
When it comes to fireworks, Dr. Culnan’s first recommendation is to leave the show in the hands of professionals. However,
he knows that’s not always an option or a preference.
“If you do decide to shoot your own fireworks, the show actually starts before you light the first fuse,” he said. “The first
thing you should do is set up an area that can only be accessed by a designated ‘shooter’, is totally off limits to any children and is far away from anything that can catch fire like structures, trees or dry grass.”
Other safety precautions include:
• Ensure a fire extinguisher, hose or bucket of water is nearby.
• Make sure the “shooter” is sober, not wearing loose clothing that could ignite, and follows all directions on the
fireworks label.
• If the device does not have a warning and/or instructions label, do not fire it.
• Never use fireworks of any kind indoors.
• Light fireworks one at a time.
• Never throw fireworks or light one in your hand. A malfunctioning fuse could cause the item to go off in your
hand.
• Never stand over an item that does not fire.
• Check with local fire and forestry officials to ensure there are no outdoor burn restrictions in place.
Dr. Culnan said residents should also use extra caution with fireworks that don’t burst in the air.“Things like sparklers and other items that stay close to the ground are still very dangerous,” he said. “After a sparkler goes
out, the stick it was on is still very, very hot. If a child picks it up, that can cause a very severe burn.”
Fireworks are not the only burn-related danger on Independence Day. Grilling out in the back yard can also be hazardous,
with potential issues ranging from gas leaks to extremely hot surfaces. If you have a gas grill, the first step is to make sure there are no leaks in lines. The best way to check is by spraying soapy water on gas line connections. If you see bubbles,
there is a leak.
When it is time to light the grill, whether it is gas or charcoal, make sure the lid is open. Trapped gas could cause an explosion.
Other tips for staying safe during Independence Day cookouts include:
• Use grills only in properly ventilated areas, as the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fires increases if grilling
in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Do not use an accelerant, such as gasoline, to light a grill, campfire or debris pile. Gas fumes can ignite and cause a
large explosion.
• Dispose of hot coals properly: Soak with water, then stir and soak again to make sure the fire is out.
• Always shut off the propane tank valve when not in use.
• Always wear short sleeves and/or tight-fitting clothing while grilling.
• Use utensils with long handles to stay clear of hot surfaces.
• Utility/BBQ grill lighters are not safe for children and should not be left outdoors where the elements may weaken
or damage the plastic.
For more information about MBHRC, visit www.msburnandhands.com. To schedule an interview with a burn physician, contact Jason B. Smith at 706-832-7592, or via email at [email protected].
About Mississippi Burn, Hand, & Reconstruction Center
Founded in the aftermath of the closing of Mississippi’s only burn center in 2022, Mississippi Burn, Hand, & Reconstruction
Center is committed to providing hope through healing to the Magnolia State. As the only facility with a fellowship-trained
medical director, burn-center-trained staff and the state’s most-experienced burn, wound and extremity injury team, MBRHC at Baptist is ensures the best outcomes for our patients and their families.
