The Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays – Pt 20: First Aid for Common Firework Injuries

Hosting your own firework display can be great fun, but even with all the precautions in the world, accidents can happen. From an overly curious child picking up a just-used sparkler to a misjudged lighting moment, knowing how to handle common firework injuries is a must.

This guide will arm you with essential first-aid knowledge, so you can handle minor mishaps with confidence and ensure everyone gets home safely (and with the same number of fingers they arrived with).

Burns: The Most Common Firework Fumble

Burns are by far the most common injury from fireworks. Sparklers, while seemingly harmless, burn at temperatures high enough to melt some metals, and rockets or fountains can easily result in singed skin if handled carelessly. If someone sustains a burn, swift and proper treatment is key.

For first-degree burns, where the skin is red but not blistered, run the area under cool (not ice-cold) water for at least 20 minutes. Avoid the temptation to use butter, oils, or any other “home remedies” that could make things worse. Once the burn is cooled, cover it with a sterile, non-stick dressing. For additional comfort, over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol can help.

For second-degree burns, where blisters have formed, follow the same cooling procedure, but resist the urge to pop those blisters—they're nature’s way of protecting the wound. Cover the area lightly with a dressing and seek medical help. For severe burns, where the skin is charred or layers are visibly damaged, call 999 immediately.

Eye Injuries: When Sparks Hit the Wrong Target

Firework debris, smoke, and sparks can wreak havoc on eyes. It’s one reason wearing protective eyewear is always a smart move for anyone lighting fireworks. But if an eye injury does occur, the priority is to act quickly and carefully.

If foreign debris gets into the eye, avoid rubbing it at all costs—it will only make things worse. Rinse the eye gently with clean water or saline for about 15 minutes, keeping the eyelid open as much as possible. If chemicals from fireworks have caused irritation, rinse thoroughly and call for medical advice.

For more serious injuries, such as cuts or embedded objects, don’t attempt to remove anything. Cover the eye with a clean, soft cloth and seek urgent medical attention.

Inhalation of Smoke or Fumes: Breathe Easy

Fireworks produce a lot of smoke, and for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, this can be a serious issue. If someone is struggling to breathe after inhaling smoke, get them to a fresh-air environment as quickly as possible. Encourage slow, deep breaths and have their inhaler at the ready if they use one. If breathing difficulties persist or worsen, call 999 without hesitation.

Hand and Finger Injuries: A Close Encounter

Mishandling fireworks—or worse, trying to pick one up after it’s failed to ignite—can result in hand and finger injuries. If someone suffers a cut or blast-related injury, start by stemming any bleeding.

Apply firm but gentle pressure using a clean cloth. If there’s severe bleeding, keep the injured hand elevated and call for emergency help. Avoid attempting to straighten or move damaged fingers and wrap the hand lightly to keep it clean until professional help arrives.

Hearing Damage: When Things Get Too Loud

Fireworks are noisy; that’s part of their charm. But they can also damage hearing if you’re too close or repeatedly exposed to loud bangs. If someone complains of ringing ears or muffled hearing after a firework display, move them to a quieter area immediately. Symptoms like persistent ringing (tinnitus) or noticeable hearing loss warrant a visit to the GP or an audiologist.

Keep Calm and Carry On

The best thing you can do in any firework-related emergency is to remain calm. Knowing some basic first aid, having a well-stocked kit on hand, and keeping emergency numbers saved in your phone will make all the difference. Remember, fireworks are meant to entertain, not endanger—so follow this advice to ensure your display goes off with a bang (in the good way).

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