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Firework injuries: a ten-year study.
Vinita Puri1, Sanjay Mahendru, Roshani Rana
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive Surgery and Burns, Seth G.S. Medical College, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India. docpuri@vsnl.com
Summary
Firework injuries significantly decreased over ten years due to increased community awareness and safety campaigns. Most injuries occurred in unsupervised children aged 5-14, often from misuse or device failure.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
- Consumer Product Safety
Background:
- Fireworks are widely used globally for celebrations, notably during Diwali in India.
- This leads to a significant number of hospital admissions for firework-related injuries across all age groups.
- Understanding injury patterns is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends and characteristics of firework-related injuries over a decade.
- To identify common causes, injury types, and demographic factors associated with these injuries.
- To inform public health initiatives and safety recommendations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective and prospective study of 157 patients with firework injuries.
- Data collected from 1997 to 2006 at KEM Hospital's Department of Plastic Surgery.
- Analysis included injury prevalence, demographics, causative agents, and injury patterns.
Main Results:
- A steady decrease in firework injuries was observed, from 41 cases in 1997 to 3 in 2006.
- The 5-14 age group sustained the most injuries (35%), with 92% unsupervised.
- Firework misuse (41%) and device failure (35%) were primary causes; flares/fountains caused the most injuries (39%).
Conclusions:
- Increased community awareness and safety campaigns significantly reduced firework injuries.
- Unsupervised children are particularly vulnerable; targeted education is essential.
- Minimizing firework accidents requires ongoing awareness, promoting professional displays, and ensuring manufacturer quality control.
