Firework injuries can cause 'lifelong impact' warns Consultant Plastic Surgeon

A leading plastic surgeon here is warning firework injuries can have a lifelong impact, as Halloween approaches.

Ulster Hospital Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr Alastair Brown says he has seen severe injuries and is warning the public about the dangers.

Mr Brown said: "Each year we see a number of firework injuries presenting to the Plastic Surgery Service in the hospital."

"Fireworks are not toys."

"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 face:

"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.”

"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.

"A moment’s carelessness can cause a lifetime of problems for you or for someone else."

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