Celebrating Independence Day on July 4 marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. On this day, the 13 American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain, formally stating their desire to form a new nation, the United States of America. The day symbolizes the birth of a nation founded on principles like liberty, equality, and self-governance. It’s a reminder of the ideals of democracy that the country was built upon.
Friends, families and communities gather to show patriotism, unity, tradition and come together as a nation, regardless of background, to honor the shared history and values. Whether a beach picnic, lake, parking lot or backyard, fireworks are usually involved. It’s never a bad time to celebrate safely.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, eight people died and nearly 10,000 were treated in emergency rooms due to fireworks-related injuries in 2023. Most injuries occurred in the weeks surrounding the Fourth of July.
“Fireworks can cause devastating injuries in a matter of seconds,” said Kathy Rodgers, trauma director at Christus Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth. “The safest choice is always to attend a professional show, but if you plan to use fireworks at home, it’s critical to take the right precautions.”
Rodgers emphasized the importance of the following safety tips:
– Never use fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
– Never light fireworks indoors or hold them in your hand.
– Keep a safe distance after lighting.
– Light one firework at a time.
– Only purchase fireworks from licensed, reputable vendors.
Of the thousands injured each year, roughly 60% suffer burns, while others experience open wounds, cuts, loss of fingers, bruises and eye injuries.
Children are especially at risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for a quarter of fireworks-related injuries. Sparklers can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt metal.
“Sparklers may seem harmless, but they can cause serious burns, especially to young children,” Rodgers said. “If children are using them, make sure they are constantly supervised and wear proper footwear and clothing. We want everyone to enjoy their Fourth of July celebrations, but not at the cost of a trip to the emergency room.”
The American Red Cross advises never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection. Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.” Also, store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
For those hosting a picnic, don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
If you are going to cook on the grill, never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
Always supervise the grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
The July weather is scorching, but always watch the weather and get out of the water at the first sign of lightning or the rumble of thunder if you are outside in body of water. Stay indoors and away from water for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.
Always designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
Children, inexperienced swimmers, and all boaters should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Protect your neck – don’t dive in headfirst. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life.
If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm and don’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Then, turn and swim to shore. If you can’t swim to shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore. Draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help.
Many apps are available for free download for instant access to safety tips, including the Red Cross First Aid and Swim app.