The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but it's also a time when injuries can happen. Here are some safety tips from a medical perspective to help you enjoy the holiday without getting hurt:
- Leave fireworks to the professionals. The most common cause of fireworks injuries is from setting off illegal or homemade fireworks. If you want to see fireworks, attend a public display put on by professionals.
- Keep children away from fireworks. Children are especially vulnerable to fireworks injuries. Never give fireworks to children, and supervise them closely if they are near fireworks.
- Wear eye protection. Eye injuries are a common type of fireworks injury. Always wear eye protection when handling or viewing fireworks.
- Stand back. Fireworks can launch debris and projectiles that can cause serious injuries. Always stand at least 20 feet away from the person lighting fireworks, and stay at least 500 feet away from professional fireworks displays.
- Don't drink and shoot fireworks. Alcohol and fireworks don't mix. Alcohol can impair your judgment and coordination, making it more likely that you will make a mistake with fireworks.
- Dispose of fireworks properly. Never throw fireworks into the trash or down a storm drain. Instead, soak them in water for at least 24 hours before disposing of them in the trash.
In addition to these safety tips, it's also important to be aware of the following medical conditions that can increase your risk of injury from fireworks:
- Heart disease. Fireworks can cause sudden increases in blood pressure and heart rate, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease.
- Seizure disorders. The noise and bright lights from fireworks can trigger seizures in people with seizure disorders.
- Diabetes. Fireworks can cause burns, which can be especially dangerous for people with diabetes.
If you have any of these medical conditions, talk to your doctor about how to safely enjoy fireworks this Fourth of July.
By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your Fourth of July celebration is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Here are some additional safety tips for specific activities:
- Swimming: Make sure to swim in designated areas that are supervised by lifeguards. Never swim alone, and never dive into unfamiliar waters.
- BBQing: Keep an eye on the grill at all times, and never leave it unattended. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher or water hose nearby in case of a fire.
- Fireworks: Never give fireworks to children. Always follow the instructions on the packaging, and never point fireworks at people or animals. Soak used fireworks in water for at least 24 hours before disposing of them.
By following these safety tips, you can help prevent injuries and have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration.