At least 25 victims of fireworks accidents during the New Year’s celebrations had to undergo surgery and are now facing permanent damage.
The Dutch Association of Plastic Surgeons (NVPC) reports that most of the injuries were to the victims’ hands and faces as well as burns. ''Five hands had to be amputated. In addition, a larger number of victims needed to have one or more fingers, or parts thereof, removed.”
A number of the injuries were caused by home-made fireworks bombs said the NVPC. Most of the victims were young men.
''A substantial number are minors. Children in particular are not sufficiently aware of the dangers involved. The explosion is over in seconds. Unfortunately, after that it’s a long road of physical therapy, multiple operations and, for example, chronic pain.”
The NVPC argues for better education, in particular of young people.
(gsh/hs)
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