As the United States prepares to celebrate its 247th birthday, the American Red Cross wants to remind you of some simple safety tips to ensure that you spend the holiday having fun — and not in the emergency room.
One of the first things people think of on Independence Day is fireworks. While we enjoy watching the “rockets red glare,” Red Cross Preparedness Disaster Program Manager Linda Medford reminds us that fireworks improperly used pose a serious injury and fire risk.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that more than 7,000 people are treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments every year for fireworks-related injuries during the July 4 holiday period. Approximately one-third of those injuries are to children under the age 15. The National Fire Protection Association also reports that nearly 20,000 fireworks-related fires are reported nationally each year.
“It’s a lot of fun that goes on during the Fourth of July,” Medford said. “But it’s a very serious moment, as well because we all want to make sure that we are safe.”
Medford says it is important to follow local and state fireworks regulations. If the law allows you to set off fireworks at home, she said find a location away from building and trees. It’s also smart to keep a supply of water or a fire extinguisher close by.
“We don’t ever want to give fireworks to small children, and we don’t want to throw them or point them toward people, animals, vehicles or structures,” Medford said. “If you live in an area where there is drought, those sparks can land on a piece of grass or a leaf and can turn into a huge wildfire in seconds.”
Another concern during the holiday is summertime heat. Medford says it is a good idea to make sure that everyone is well hydrated during outdoor activities and has a place they can go to cool down. It’s important to know the signs of heat stroke: Throbbing headache; confusion; nausea; dizziness; body temperature above 103 degrees; hot, red, dry or damp skin; rapid and strong pulse; fainting; and loss of consciousness. If these signs appear, she says you should promptly seek medical assistance.
“If you are traveling a great distance, know where you are going and monitor the weather conditions in that area,” she said. Just as is recommended in the winter, Medford suggests you have a summertime travel emergency kit in your car that includes water, protein, road flares, first aid, and tools for changing a flat tire.
“Make sure you have a phone charger, just in case you phone power runs low, and you are stranded on the roadside,” she added.
For those who plan to go swimming during the holiday, Medford says you should exercise basic water safety precautions. She notes that nearly 10 people die every day in the U.S. from unintentional drowning. That’s why following basic safety rules are critical.
“Don’t go swimming alone,” she said. “Have a Water Watcher. It’s important there’s someone looking out for them, regardless of their age.”
To ensure a safer holiday celebration, Medford suggests people download the American Red Cross first aid, first aid for pets, swimming-related and emergency apps from redcross.org/apps.
“By taking very simple precautions, we can ensure that everyone enjoys their time in and on the water this summer,” Medford said. “Let’s celebrate the Fourth safely.”
About the Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!