Stay Safe and Sound This Fourth of July
Barbecues, parades, time with friends and family, and best of all – fireworks! These are some of the ingredients that can make up a fun and fulfilling fourth of July celebration. As exciting as they may be, however, the presence of fireworks and sparklers brings important safety concerns that must be addressed.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 8,500 people in the United States are treated each year for fireworks-related injuries, with around 70-75% of these injuries occurring during the 30-day period surrounding July fourth. In addition, 40% of those injured are children aged 14 and below. So, for this year’s celebration, let’s look at some ways to keep ourselves and our families safe and sound.
Firework Shows – Consider attending one of the many public fireworks shows hosted by towns and cities around the country. These fireworks shows are conducted by highly trained professionals who will keep you safe while treating you to a display of dazzling colors. If you’re not sure where to find public fireworks show, ask your neighbors or check the website of your local town or city.
Fireworks At Home – Setting off your own fireworks adds a personal touch to your celebration but comes with increased risks. Here are some precautions you can take to keep yourself safe.
- Check Local Regulation – Before using fireworks, ensure that the specific types you intend to use are legal in your area.
- Proper Storage – Store fireworks in a dry area, away from children’s reach and incendiary sources.
- Use Open Space – Select a hard, flat surface like concrete when preparing to light fireworks. Clear the area in which you will light fireworks.
- Read Instructions – Carefully read and follow the instructions on each firework device.
- Eyes and Hands Protection – Wear protective eyewear and gloves to prevent potential injury against sparks and debris.
- Ignition – Keep a safe distance by using an extendable lighter.
- Safety Zone – Make sure that everyone watching the fireworks keep their distance away from the fireworks.
- Supervision – Do not leave children on their own and watch them closely when anyone close is using fireworks.
- Never Relight Duds – If a firework does not ignite fully, wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water before disposing of it.
- Disposal – For initial disposal of used fireworks, soak them in a bucket of water.
Handling Injuries
If someone is injured due to fireworks, it’s essential to administer first aid promptly.
- Assess the Situation – Ensure the area is safe before moving in to assist an injured person.
- Call for Help – Dial 911 immediately if the injury is serious.
- Manage Burns
- For Minor Burns – Cool the burn with running cold water for at least 10 minutes. Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean cloth.
- For Major Burns – Do not remove any clothing stuck to the burn. Monitor the person’s breathing and provide support while waiting for medical help.
- Eye Injuries – If a firework has caused an injury to someone’s eyes, do not rub or rinse them. Cover them with a clean, non-stick cloth, and seek medical attention immediately.
- Stay Calm and Reassure – Keep the injured person calm, reassure them and monitor their condition until medical help arrives.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your fourth of July celebration is not only fun and memorable but also safe for everyone involved. Enjoy the festivities responsibly and have a happy Independence Day!
************************************************************************
Resources
- Don’t get burned by the Fourth of July: Encourage smart fireworks use in your community – Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Www.mayoclinic.org. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/trauma/news/dont-get-burned-by-the-fourth-of-july-encourage-smart-fireworks-use-in-your-community/mac-20568239
- Howland, J. (2023, June 29). Mayo Clinic Minute: Fireworks safety tips. Mayo Clinic News Network. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-fireworks-safety-tips/
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). Burns – Diagnosis and treatment. Mayoclinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/burns/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370545
- Notice to Readers: Injuries From Fireworks in the United States. (n.d.). Www.cdc.gov. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4924a7.htm#:~:text=The%20U.S.%20Consumer%20Product%20Safety%20Commission%20%28CPSC%29%20estimates
- Safety tips for using fireworks. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from https://sncs-prod-external.mayo.edu/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/use-caution-with-fireworks
Disclaimer
We want you to be well and to live your best life. The content in this blog is provided for the purposes to educate and entertain you: our very important reader. It is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical advice from a trained healthcare professional.
If you have a medical condition or are under the care of a medical provider, please always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional before undertaking a new health care regimen. To that point, never disregard medical advice or delay treatment for a medical condition because of something you read on this site.
Listen to your care providers as they know you and your condition best. Thank you for reading!
The Team at BSDI