4th Of July Fireworks, Stay Safe And Sane In Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY, CA —July 4th fireworks are integral to celebrations across the Southland, but they are part of the reason this is the most dangerous holiday of the year, Orange County Fire Authority says.

Last year, 38 people in Orange County went to the emergency room due to a firework injury. Sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees, three times hotter than a typical oven. In a recent display, firefighters, burn center doctors and county health officials spoke on the dangers that are not often thought about until it is too late.

Approaching fireworks that may not have exploded is also dangerous. Video showed what a cherry bomb type explosive firework can do if a person leans over it, where firefighters used a dummy with a watermelon head to prove their point.

It didn't go so good for the watermelon, as you can see in the video above.

Dr. Andrea Dunkleman, Medical Director of the Orange County Burn Center, shared how important it is to keep even sparklers away from children.

"Children's skin burns more quickly and deeply than adults," she said. "It is important to keep children's hands and faces away from sparklers."

She often sees fireworks cause burns to the face, hands, eyes, and ears, especially to kids under 15 years old, and those scars that are caused during an evening of fun may never fade. Also,

An unseen danger stems from those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorders.

Richard Beam spoke of the challenges 4th of July fireworks cause some veterans who suffer from PTSD. He suggested family members stay nearby to reassure the veterans that they are safe.

A crisis line is available at 800.273.8255.

The most considerable concern for officials is the number of intoxicated drivers.

"Please designate a sober driver or hire a rideshare service, but whatever you do, do not drive under the influence of any substance."

From families who want to enjoy sparklers and "safe and sane fireworks" to those who just "had a beer or two" at a backyard barbecue, officials agree that there is no reason to play with danger on the 4th of July.