Hundreds of first-aid volunteers are getting ready for Guy Fawkes night in case of fireworks injury.
Members of St John Ambulance are on duty at eight major public firework displays on November 5 across London, including Tower Hamlets and Newham, as well as being on hand at 70 smaller gatherings. Some 260,000 spectators are expected these public events.
Around 1,000 people every year will visit A&E for treatment for injuries caused by fireworks in the four weeks leading to Bonfire Night, the first-aid charity points out.
Injuries are more likely at private parties where trained first-aiders won’t be on hand.
So the charity has launched a Firework Fan’s First Aid Guide in case of accidents.
“We don’t want people ending their celebrations in hospital,” St John’s Ambulance events manager Katherine Eaton said.
“Our volunteers will be on hand at hundreds of displays—but anyone having a private event needs to know what to do if there is a first aid emergency.”
Most common injuries are burns from fireworks, bonfires or sparklers, as well as debris in the eye, inhaling smoke—or scalds from hot drinks.
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