Fireworks should carry graphic warnings, says NHS surgeons

Plastic, hand and burns surgeons are calling for an urgent policy change to reduce the number of injuries caused by firework misuse, which often require costly and complex reconstructive surgery.

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), British Society for Surgery of the Hand (BSSH), and the British Burn Association (BBA) are calling on the Government to implement urgently required policy changes to reduce the number of serious injuries caused by the misuse of fireworks, including mandatory graphic warning images and plain packaging for fireworks to warn individuals against misuse.

In the last year alone, 1,936 people visited A&E due to injuries cause by fireworks, with children under the age of 18 accounting for 31 per cent of hospital admissions. Injuries were also found to peak in the winter months, when fireworks are more readily available in supermarkets and stores.

In recent years there has been a positive shift towards more responsible marketing for products which pose a threat to health and well-being; including gambling, alcohol, cigarettes and junk food. Despite this, firework packaging continues to echo the visual language of sweets and games – with warnings buried in small boxes on the back of the item – and colourful stalls are often set-up at the front of stores.

Mark Henley, president of BAPRAS, said: “Another year has now passed and the government has failed to take appropriate action to reduce the number of children and young adults who sustain life-changing injuries from the misuse of fireworks. Although packaged as toys, these are serious explosives, and the types of reconstructive surgery being required would not be out of place in a war zone.”

David Newington, president of the BSSH, added: “Hand surgeons see devastating injuries caused by fireworks throughout the winter months, with people often losing large portions of their hand. Providing warnings on all firework packaging would serve as a graphic reminder of the severe yet avoidable damage they can cause. Even sparklers – which are often thought of as safe – can present a significant risk unless used carefully, as they burn at such high temperatures.”