Firecracker Injury First Aid: What to Do and What to Avoid
Firecrackers and fireworks have long been part of New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Philippines. Many Filipinos believe that the noise drives away bad luck and negative spirits, making room for good fortune for the year ahead. However, while firecrackers add excitement and meaning to New Year’s Eve, they also pose safety risks.
Every New Year, hospitals and clinics across the country treat firecracker-related injuries including burns, cuts, and blast wounds. In January 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 704 firework-related injuries and one death, surpassing the numbers recorded in 2024.
Knowing proper first aid and understanding what to do and what not to do can make a crucial difference in preventing complications and ensuring safe, effective wound healing.
What to Do Immediately After a Firecracker Injury
1. Ensure safety first.
Move away from the source of danger and make sure that the area has no active firecrackers. Find a safe spot, preferably in a calm environment, where you can focus on providing proper first aid.
2. Control bleeding immediately.
WebMD recommends applying steady pressure using a clean cloth, towel, gauze, or tissue. Keep the injured part elevated if possible to help slow down bleeding and prevent shock.
3. Clean the wound gently but thoroughly.
Wash your hands before cleaning and dressing the firecracker-related injury. Use clean running water to rinse the wound to remove residue, dirt, and debris that could cause infection. If mild soap is available, use it around the area but not deep inside the wound.
4. Cool burn injuries properly.
According to the Mayo Clinic, cooling a burn as soon as possible helps reduce pain and prevent further skin damage. Place the affected area under cool (not cold) running water for about 10 minutes. If running water is not available, or if the firecracker-related burn is on the face, gently apply a clean cloth soaked in cool water until the pain eases.
5. Protect the wound.
Cover the injury with a clean, non-stick dressing or sterile gauze to keep bacteria out. This will also help the wound heal properly. Change the dressing if it becomes dirty or wet.
The Department of Health (DOH) advises the public to give proper first aid immediately, then seek medical care after firecracker injuries, as even small cuts or scratches can lead to serious complications, including infections such as tetanus.
For timely assessment and proper treatment, patients may visit the Care Center Clinic, a PhilHealth YAKAP-accredited clinic, where healthcare professionals can help prevent complications and support safe healing.
What NOT to Do After a Firecracker Injury
1. Do NOT use toothpaste and other home remedies on burns.
Healthline advises against putting toothpaste on burns. Although it may provide a cooling sensation at first, toothpaste can trap heat under the skin and irritate the burn. This can cause more damage and delay healing. It is also not advisable to use ice, coffee grounds, oil, butter, egg whites, or herbal mixtures on burns because they can trap bacteria, irritate the skin, and increase the risk of infection.
2. Do NOT pop blisters or remove burned skin.
According to Healthline, blisters are your skin’s way of protecting itself from infection. Popping them on purpose can expose the sensitive skin underneath, make infection more likely, and slow down healing. It’s best to just let them heal naturally.
3. Do NOT use alcohol, iodine, or hydrogen peroxide directly on burns.
Mayo Clinic discourages the use of alcohol, iodine, or hydrogen peroxide to clean burns because they can irritate damaged skin and slow down healing.
4. Do NOT wrap the wound too tightly.
While covering a wound is important to keep it clean, wrapping it too tightly can restrict blood flow. This can slow down healing and increase swelling or discomfort. Tight bandages can also trap moisture and create an environment where bacteria can grow, raising the risk of infection.
Final Thoughts
As you celebrate the New Year, remember to prioritize safety, especially for children, who are most at risk during fireworks. Keep kids at a safe distance from firecrackers, supervise them closely, and encourage safer ways to enjoy the festivities.
While using firecrackers is part of Filipino tradition, safety should always come first. If an accident occurs, staying calm, knowing what to do, and avoiding common mistakes helps prevent infection, reduce complications, and promote faster healing.
Remember, even minor burns or cuts can worsen if not treated properly. Provide immediate first aid and visit the Care Center Clinic for professional medical care to ensure proper treatment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Can I use ice on a burn?
Avoid placing ice directly on skin burns because it can cause further tissue damage.
2. When should I go to the clinic for a firecracker-related injury?
Deep wounds, burns that blister, injuries involving eyes, face, fingers, or large areas, or wounds that worsen or cause severe pain should be seen by a doctor right away.
3. Are minor scratches from fireworks dangerous?
Even small cuts can get infected if not cleaned and covered properly. Monitor for redness, swelling, pus, or pain, and seek medical care if these appear.
4. Can home remedies help burns?
No. Toothpaste, butter, oil, and other home remedies can worsen burns and delay healing. Always follow proper first aid steps or consult a healthcare professional.
5. Do I need a tetanus shot after a firecracker injury?
You may need a tetanus shot, especially if the wound is deep, dirty, or caused by an explosion. The Department of Health (DOH) advises that tetanus can develop even from small cuts or scratches. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, it’s best to visit the Care Center Clinic for proper assessment and guidance.