In addition to this extremity injury, the patient suffered severe facial burns. The majority of fireworks-related injuries occur around the July 4th holiday, but it is not uncommon to see these injuries throughout the month of July and on Flag Day, Veteran's Day, New Year's Eve, etc. Although few in number, these injuries represent an additional type of trauma to the hand that receives little public attention. It is our intent to acquaint you with these injuries and the specific types of fireworks associated with the more severe hand and upper extremity lesions. Subsequent statistical information has allowed epidemiological evaluation of these specific injuries.
Children are the most likely victims of fireworks injuries.
These injuries most often will occur while attempting to light the fuse of the explosive device. Injured patients often report that the fuse simply burned too quickly and ignited the device before the firework could be released or thrown.