National Fireworks Safety Month runs June 1 through July 4 each year, and the health care and services staff at Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua, HI, encourage families to use special care with fireworks this summer. According to statistics from CPSC.gov, hospitals treat nearly 6,000 people for fireworks-related injuries around the Fourth of July holiday, with injuries ranging from minor to fatal.  Alcohol can sometimes play a factor, but not always. Often, a simple or careless mistake can lead to a traumatic or life-threatening injury.

Avoid an emergency trip to the hospital by following these safe practices for fireworks use this summer:

• Use Common Sense: Purchase all of your fireworks from credible retailers, and always follow the instructions on the packages. Only shoot fireworks outside and away from trees and buildings.
• Have Adult Supervision: Make sure a responsible adult supervises all fireworks activity. Don’t let young children handle fireworks, and have the responsible adult be the designated shooter.
• Handle Fireworks With Care: Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets, and never attempt to relight a firework that doesn’t go off the first time. Keep water nearby at all times and soak spent fireworks before tossing them in a trash can.
• Obey The Laws Of Your Community: Certain weather conditions can lead to the prohibition of fireworks, and in some areas, they’re illegal to use. Check your local ordinances before you buy fireworks this summer.

If you experience an emergency with fireworks this summer, you can find the health care and services you need at Kona Community Hospital. With more than 100 years of experience caring for the residents of West Hawaii, the award-winning hospital staff specializes in emergency physician services, rehabilitation, behavioral health, cancer therapy, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their services and other hospital information.