Fireworks are fun, but not allowed Published July 3, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Eric Summers 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Fireworks may be fun and exciting to play with, but they can also be dangerous. "According to the National Fire Protection Association 10,800 people were treated in United States for firework related injuries," said Capt. Ely Wolin, 374th Medical Support Squadron urgent care physician. In the past, school age children have accounted for nearly half of the firework injuries. Children ages 10 to 14 are three times more likely to suffer injuries than the general public. Firework injuries happen when fireworks are used, produced, stored or transported. "Fireworks can cause both structural and vehicle fires which can result in injury and death," said Captain Wolin. "In terms of direct injury to people, fireworks usually cause burns, contusions and lacerations." "The treatment required on firework injuries definitely depends on the type and extent of injury," said Captain Wolin. "It is important to remember that people can die from firework related injuries." "Burn injuries can require anything from frequent dressing changes with antibiotic ointment, to placement of a breathing tube and respiratory support for some inhalation or burn injury to the respiratory tract," said Captain Wolin. "Laceration burn injuries will usually require the placement of stitches to help prevent infection and improve healing and scar formation." According to 374 AW PAM 38-3 Ch.4.4.5 fireworks are not allowed on-base. Yokota residents are only allowed to use fireworks off-base. To view the pamphlet click on the link to the right. "The rules are simple, absolutely no fireworks are allowed on base," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Perreira, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron fire inspector. "When fireworks are purchased you must have your fun off base and return with no fireworks in your possession" "If personnel are caught with fireworks on base the fireworks will be confiscated, the person will be arrested and if he is a military member they will be turned over to their unit," said Master Sgt. Gordon Smith, 374th Security Forces Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of police services. On-base fireworks are considered illegal contraband and possession of fireworks on a military installation is failure to obey a lawful order and violators could face charges under Article 92 of the Uniformed Code of Military Justice. For more information call Security ForcesSquadron LED at 225-7227.