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Michael Lekawa, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Trauma Surgeon

Summer is a time for celebration, including outdoor barbecues, pool parties and fireworks displays. However, Michael Lekawa, M.D., UC Irvine Healthcare trauma surgeon, cautions that everyone who gathers with family and friends for fun in the sun should remember to celebrate safely and avoid common pitfalls that may cause injuries.

Alcohol

Trauma is the leading cause of death in people age 44 and younger, accounting for the loss of more young lives than heart disease and cancer combined. The most common cause of trauma death is car accidents – a profound number of which are caused by drunk drivers. If alcohol is going to be part of your celebrations, Dr. Lekawa strongly encourages the following:

• Do not drink and drive.
• Make someone a designated driver or arrange for transportation by a taxi.
• If you cannot arrange transportation, plan for an overnight stay.
• If you are hosting a party, make transportation arrangements for your guests.
• Keep alcohol away from barbecues and fireworks.
• Do not ignite fireworks while under the influence of alcohol.

Fireworks
 
Burns are the most common injury from fireworks. The best way to enjoy fireworks safely is to attend a public fireworks display. If you decide to light your own fireworks, keep in mind that sparklers – often thought as safe to give to children – are one of the most common causes of firework-related burn injuries in young children. And although popular with teens, the use of illegal fireworks can cause major trauma, including the loss of fingers and hands.
 
Be safe and always keep fire extinguishers and water nearby and read the directions and warning labels on fireworks before using them.
 
According to Dr. Lekawa, one should never underestimate the severity of a burn, particularly if one occurs on a person's genitals, face, hands or feet. If a burn occurs over a large area of the body and/or penetrates several layers of skin, wash away any toxic chemicals using water after dousing the flame, cover the victim with a dry sheet and take them immediately to an emergency room or call 911 for assistance.
 
Level I Trauma Center

With the only Level I trauma center in Orange County, UC Irvine Medical Center is equipped and staffed to manage any type of traumatic injury 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Level I designation – the highest distinction awarded by the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons – means that our facility meets the nation's highest standards in trauma care.

Learn more about Dr. Lekawa »