Stay Safe This Fourth of July: Firework Safety Tips from Norman Regional Urgent Care

As families across Oklahoma prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, it’s important to remember that even small firecrackers can pose serious dangers. Norman Regional Urgent Care physician Hieu Nguyen, MD, shares key firework safety tips to help you enjoy the holiday while avoiding a trip to the emergency room.

Plan Ahead and Be Prepared

“Have a plan in case of an unexpected injury,” Dr. Nguyen said. “Always keep a first aid kit and fire extinguisher nearby.” While fireworks can be fun and festive, they are also explosives and should be treated with care.

Don’t Underestimate the Risk

People often assume that small fireworks or sparklers are harmless, but Dr. Nguyen warns, “Even small firecrackers can cause serious injury.” Each year, Norman Regional treats patients with a range of firework-related injuries, including:

• Blast injuries to the hands
• Eye injuries
• Burns from fireworks or sun exposure
• Alcohol poisoning
• Dehydration

Protect the Most Vulnerable

Children, teens, and intoxicated adults are among the most at-risk for firework-related injuries. Taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference:

• Keep a safe distance from any fireworks once they’re lit.
• Never point fireworks at other people.
• Use extended lighters to ignite fireworks safely.
• Wear fire-resistant gloves and safety glasses for added protection.

Fire Prevention Tip: Use a Water Bucket

Ricardo Rodriguez, MD, AAFP, ABIHM, from Norman Regional Health’s Porter Urgent Care adds “Many fire departments across the country are advocating for the water bucket challenge. Keep a large bucket of water close to your fireworks and dump them in the water before putting them in the trash. There’s been a huge increase in trashcan and dumpster fires caused by still-hot fireworks.”

Know When to Seek Medical Help

Not all burns or injuries require emergency care but some do. Dr. Nguyen recommends seeking emergency care for:

• Burns that are deep, full-thickness, or cover a large area
• Circumferential burns (burns that wrap around a limb)
• Any eye injuries
• Any suspected inhalation injuries from smoke or flames

What to Do Before You Head to the ER or Urgent Care

If someone is injured by a firework, take these steps before heading to a medical facility:

• Remove any clothing, jewelry, or debris from the affected area.
• Rinse the area with room-temperature tap water, never use ice or cold water.
• Clean gently with mild soap and water (avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide).
• Cover the wound with moist gauze for up to 30 minutes until proper dressings can be applied.

Safe and Happy Fourth of July

Dr. Nguyen’s go-to firework safety tip?
“Use common sense, keep your distance, and let someone else take care of the fireworks.”

Norman Regional Urgent Care is closed on Friday, July 4. For more serious injuries, Norman Regional’s three emergency rooms in Norman and Moore are always ready to care for you and your loved ones.

Celebrate smart. Stay safe. And have a happy Fourth of July.