[Burns due to fireworks. A 4-year study of the incidence and causes with suggestions for prevention]

During the period around New Year 1991-1992, significantly more patients were admitted to the burns units in Denmark with burns caused by fireworks, compared to the previous three years. All patients were males and 88% under 18 years of age. The areas burned were localized primarily to the thighs and the front of the body. The main causative fireworks were whistles. Analyses revealed the fuses to be highly combustible. New directives have been issued, requiring whistles to be equipped with safety fuses. Although 70% of the patients were aware that fireworks should not be carried close to the body, the message has not been sufficiently stressed. A campaign for the oncoming New Year, informing about burns, eye and hand injuries caused by fireworks is under preparation. Although sale of fireworks to persons under 18 years of age is prohibited, more than 80% of the children had purchased the fireworks themselves. We recommend reinforcement of the law.