Most of these victims are under 20 and injured at private firework events or in the streets rather than organised displays.
Rob Simpson, Accident and Emergency Consultant at Milton Keynes Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Fireworks and bonfires are fun, but are potentially very dangerous. We are asking the public to play their part in helping us keep everyone safe over the bonfire period. We all know bonfires and fireworks have the potential to seriously injure or even kill. We would urge everyone to attend professionally organised displays.”
Prompt first aid treatment is essential in the management of burns. Thankfully, most burns are minor. Minor burns can be managed by running cool water on the area for five to 10 minutes or covering it with a cool compress. Ibuprofen or paracetamol will relieve pain and swelling. These incidents can usually be managed without needing medical help. If significant blistering develops, medical attention should be sought.
Unfortunately burn injuries from flame, such as those caused by fireworks or bonfires are often severe and more serious. Initial first aid is still essential, but we would recommend more serious burns are assessed by medical staff.
Life threatening burns are thankfully rare. In such an event a 999 ambulance is an appropriate response and may be lifesaving.
Milton Keynes Hospital has a fully equipped Accident and Emergency Department that is open 24/7 and able to treat all types of accidents. On an average day the department treats over 200 patients.
The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform has published some guidance to help promote fireworks safety:
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
- Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
- Keep fireworks in a closed box.
- Follow the instructions on each firework.
- Light at arm's length, using a taper.
- Stand well back.
- Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
- Always supervise children around fireworks.
- Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
- Never give sparklers to a child under five.
- Keep pets indoors.
