Fireworks can cause life-long damage and blindness says plastic surgeon from South Eastern HSC Trust
With just days to go until Halloween, Ulster Hospital Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr Alastair Brown is warning the public on the dangers of fireworks misuse.
Mr Brown has treated many of the most severe injuries caused by firework misuse over the years. He said: “Each year we see a number of firework injuries presenting to the Plastic Surgery Service in the hospital.”
“Fireworks are not toys,” stressed Mr Brown. “They can look fancy with their packaging, but they are dangerous explosives and should be handled as such.
“Even sparklers can cause significant injuries – they burn at very high temperatures. Clothes can catch fire leading to severe burns.”
A Consultant for over ten years with the Plastic Surgery Unit, Mr Brown says the majority of injuries he has treated are to the hands and facial region.
He said: “Each year the people we see presenting have injuries that are life-changing.
“Firework injuries can cause severe scarring to areas such as the face or damage to the hands that affect how you work, socialise and live.
“Patients may need years of surgeries and treatment and often this can only partly correct the damage that has been caused.
“In the most extreme circumstances, injuries can be life threatening and can even lead to blindness.”
Mr Brown said his message was clear: “If you are using fireworks this Halloween, please treat them with the utmost of respect.
“The majority of injuries caused by fireworks that we see are preventable and are caused by careless or inappropriate use.
“Never let your guard down when using fireworks – follow the instructions and the fireworks code.
