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Fireworks on the Fourth are dangerous Date published: 7/3/2007
BY KAREN BOLIPATA
Sparklers, in their stationary and nonexplosive glory, seem to be the ideal Fourth of July childhood fare. But, health safety officials say, they're more dangerous than you might think. They burn at more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and, between June and July of 2005, were associated with more than half of the estimated fireworks-related injuries in children under 5, according to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Reggie Phillips of the Fredericksburg Fire Department advises parents to keep children away from fireworks, including sparklers. "Use common sense," he added. Most injuries occur when people don't use safety precautions. In 2005, more than 10,000 were treated in emergency departments, according to the center. Most injuries involved burns to the hands and fingers. Children ages 10 to 14 had the highest rates of fireworks-related injuries. Younger children are most vulnerable because they often lack physical coordination. In Fredericksburg, Phillips said there haven't been reports of serious injuries caused by fireworks in the past five years. "I guess you could say we're lucky or blessed," he said. Dry leaves pose another safety hazard. Even one spark could set off wildfires, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry. Since January, nearly 1,000 wildfires have depleted more than 10,000 acres in Virginia. "Even green leaves can be deceiving," John Miller, chief of the forestry department, said in a statement. "Many areas around the Commonwealth are very dry." For anyone who opts to enjoy fireworks at home this year instead of at public shows like the one over the Rappahannock River, the center advises to use safety precautions. In general, leave it to professionals. Karen Bolipata: 540/374-5000Email: kbolipata@freelancestar.com
Date published: 7/3/2007
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