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Safety First, Uncle Sam! Tips for a Fun and Injury-Free Fourth

  • greaterreghealth
  • Jul 2
  • 3 min read
Greater Regional Health is excited to be a part of the Creston Parade on July 4th at 10am! See you there!
Greater Regional Health is excited to be a part of the Creston Parade on July 4th at 10am! See you there!

With all the spectacular Fourth of July celebrations coming up, it's important to stay healthy and safe so you can enjoy the festivities to the fullest! From fireworks safety to sun and heat protection, taking simple precautions can make a big difference during your weeklong celebration.



FIREWORK SAFETY


Fireworks are an iconic part of Independence Day, but they come with risks. Common injuries include burns, cuts, lesions, and in more severe cases, amputations. Stay safe with these important tips:

  • Never allow children to light fireworks.

  • Sparklers can reach 2,000°F! opt for safer alternatives like glow sticks, silly string, or noise poppers.

  • Only use legal fireworks and always check your local laws before lighting fireworks.

  • Never use fireworks if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

  • Always have a source of water nearby.

  • Light fireworks one at a time and never attempt to relight a dud.

  • Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.

  • Keep all body parts away from the fireworks when lighting.

  • Once lit, move away quickly to a safe distance.

  • The safest way to enjoy fireworks? Attend a professional show!

  • Set off fireworks in a clear, open area, away from trees, buildings, or anything flammable.


REMINDER: Pets can be easily frightened by fireworks. Keep them indoors in a safe, quiet space to reduce the risk of running away or injury during loud displays.



HEAT AND SUN SAFETY

Heat exhaustion and sun poisoning are common during the fourth of July weekend. Understanding the risks and knowing how to respond can help protect you and your family.


Heat Safety

  • Heat Cramps: Move the person to a cooler spot, gently stretch the muscle, and offer hydration.

  • Heat Exhaustion: Common Symptoms are flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, and dizziness. Move the person to a cool area, apply wet cloths, and give small sips of water.

  • Heat Stroke: Watch for hot, red skin, vomiting, unconsciousness, or a high body temperature. Call emergency services immediately, move the person to a cool space, and cool them with water, wet towels, or ice packs.


Sun Safety

  • Prevent sunburns to reduce your risk of skin cancer and other complications.

  • Sun Poisoning is a severe sunburn resembling an allergic reaction. Common Symptoms include blisters, rash, swelling, fever, chills, and headaches. Treat with cool showers, compresses, hydration, moisturizer, and pain relievers. Cover the skin if you go back outside.

  • Apply sunscreen regularly (SPF 15 or higher).

  • Be extra cautious around water and sand, which can reflect and intensify the sun's rays.


Safety Tips

  • Keep an eye on yourself and others for signs of overheating.

  • Stay hydrated throughout the day.

  • Wear loose, light-colored clothing.

  • Seek out shade whenever possible.


Take care of your health and wellbeing so you can enjoy all the festivities safely. While Greater Regional is always here when you need us, spending your Fourth of July in the Emergency Room isn’t the celebration anyone hopes for. Stay safe, stay cool, and have a happy and healthy Fourth of July!


Credits:

American Red Cross. (2019). Beat the heat with Red Cross summer safety tips. American Red Cross. https://www.redcross.org/local/california/los-angeles/about-us/news-and-events/press-releases/beat-the-heat-with-red-cross-summer-safety-tips.html 

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (2024). Fireworks. https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks 

 
 
 

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