Bonfire Night is a time for celebration, but it is also one of the busiest periods in our emergency departments for fire-related injuries, many of which are preventable.
As a plastic surgeon, I have seen first-hand the life-changing impact that fireworks and bonfires can have when something goes wrong. Fireworks are serious explosives, and if handled incorrectly, can lead to life-changing injuries in a matter of seconds.
Many require multiple rounds of complex, reconstructive surgery and a long recovery. Some are left with permanent scarring and lasting effects on their confidence, wellbeing and quality of life.
The most difficult part is that many of these injuries could have been avoided.
As Bonfire Night approaches, I would urge everyone to take simple steps to stay safe.
- Keep a safe distance (at least 5 metres)
- Supervise children closely and never return to a firework if it fails to go off.
- Sparklers get extremely hot, so they should be kept away from children under five and dropped in water and sand once used.
- Wherever possible, attend an organised display rather than hosting your own.
How to treat burns
Despite best intentions, accidents can still happen. If someone suffers a burn,
- cool it under running water for at least 20 minutes, whilst keeping the rest of the body warm.
- carefully remove any tight-fitting clothing or jewellery that’s near the affected area if it is safe to do so,
- loosely cover the area with layers of cling film, once the burn or scald has cooled
For serious injuries, please seek urgent medical help by calling 999 or visiting your nearest emergency department
Bonfire Night should be remembered for the celebrations, not a trip to hospital. Please enjoy the occasion responsibly and look out for others, together to keep we can help keep ourselves, our families and our communities safe.