Bloomington Emergency Medicine physician Robert Adams, DO, shares Fourth of July safety tips

Communities across the nation are getting ready to celebrate the July 4th holiday with cookouts, fireworks and more. Emergency departments are also preparing for the festivities.

“Head injuries, burns, smoke inhalation, bone fractures, bruises, cuts, hearing damage and other blast trauma from firework mishaps are always top of mind for healthcare workers working over the Fourth of July holiday,” says Robert Adams, DO, Bloomington Emergency Medicine physician.

Research from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows about 74% of firework-related injuries happen in the weeks around July 4. The National Fire Protection Association reports most people injured while using consumer fireworks are children or teenagers.

“Mishandling or malfunctioning of fireworks is a major concern,” says Adams. “We also see individuals come in for medical concerns caused by hot grills, alcohol consumption and more.”

Here are some tips for staying safe:

• Grills/fires

  • Keep children and pets away from grills and campfires.

  • Let grills air out before lighting them so unignited, pooled gas doesn’t explode.

• Fireworks

  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers.

  • Keep pets indoors, in a secure environment during fireworks displays.

  • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

  • Wear protective eyewear when lighting or when near fireworks.

  • Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands.

  • Never light fireworks indoors or close to buildings.

  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire.

  • Stay a safe distance away from lighted fireworks.

• Miscellaneous

  • Have a meet-up point or a plan in case someone—especially children—gets separated from your group.

  • Protect your skin from the sun and insects with sunscreen, repellants, hats, long sleeves and long hats.

  • Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.

“I also encourage those with post-traumatic stress, anxiety disorders or sensory sensitivities to have plans in place during this time to help decrease the risk of distress,” says Adams.

This can include using noise-cancelling headphones or other noise-reducing ear protections, closing blinds to block flashing lights, using breathing exercises and creating comforting distractions like playing music you enjoy. You can speak with your primary care provider about additional options.

“I encourage our community to be safe while enjoying this holiday,” adds Adams. “While emergency departments and first responders are here to help 24/7, 365, we know you’d much rather be enjoying the festivities instead of coming into the hospital because of a medical issue.”

For minor injuries or illnesses, such as small burns, cuts, sprains or rashes, convenient care options are available to help you feel better fast. Urgent Care provides walk-in access for in-person evaluation and treatment, while on-demand virtual visits let you connect online with a provider from home for quick guidance and care. Both are good options when you need prompt attention, but your condition is not life-threatening.

Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department if you need help for life-threatening medical emergencies.