Before the Fireworks: What to Know About Burn Safety

SPRINGFIELD — Sparklers, grills, and firepits are staples of Independence Day celebrations — but they also come with a risk of burns, especially for children and distracted partygoers.

Over the past year, Global Medical Response (GMR) has treated more than 3,800 burn-related emergencies across the country. Together with its ground division, American Medical Response, GMR sees burn injuries climb every summer, with a predictable spike around the Fourth of July, when fireworks and outdoor cooking are in full swing.

“Burns happen fast, and if you don’t know what to do, a minor injury can become a medical emergency,” said Dr. Gerad Troutman, associate chief medical officer at GMR. “The good news is that simple, quick actions can prevent pain, scarring, and even hospital visits.”

Burns are classified by depth and appearance, which helps determine whether they can be treated at home or require emergency care:

• First-degree burns are red, dry, and painful, like a sunburn. These are considered minor.

• Second-degree burns manifest with blisters, swelling, and a wet or shiny appearance. They’re minor if small and shallow, but considered serious if large, deep, or located on sensitive areas, such as the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints.

• Third-degree burns show up as white, brown, or charred skin that may feel numb. These are always serious and require immediate medical attention.

Consider the following advice when treating a burn:

• Cool the burn under clean, cool (not cold) water for 10 to 20 minutes.

• Gently remove jewelry or tight items before swelling begins.

• Cover with a clean, dry cloth or bandage.

• Avoid ice, butter, oils or home remedies — they can make things worse.

• Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

• Call 911 or seek medical care if the burn covers a large area (bigger than the palm of your hand); has blisters and is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or a major joint; looks white, black, brown, leathery, or dry and cracked; feels numb or causes intense pain; was caused by electricity, chemicals, or fireworks and has damaged the skin beyond redness; or comes with signs of shock, like pale skin, fainting, or fast breathing.

“Burns to sensitive areas or caused by high-risk sources should always be taken seriously,” Troutman said. “These burns can cause long-term damage or lead to infection, especially if the skin is broken. If you’re unsure, don’t wait. Call 911 and keep the area clean and cool until help arrives.”

To prevent burns this Fourth of July:

• Keep sparklers and fireworks out of kids’ reach.

• Always have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.

• Keep flames away from flammables — never leave grills or firepits unattended.

• Always check with local regulations; many areas may have burn bans.

• Turn pot and pan handles inward and avoid loose clothing while cooking.

“Fireworks are festive, but they’re also dangerous when used carelessly,” Troutman said. “We want families to enjoy the holiday, not spend it in the emergency room for something that could have been prevented.”

By learning how to prevent and treat burns, families can enjoy the holiday with peace of mind and make sure the only things burning are the sparklers.