BLOOMINGTON – On Saturday, July 4, people across the United States will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence with cookouts, fireworks, and more. Emergency departments and first responders 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 scheduled to work over the Fourth of July holiday,” said Robert (Bob) Adams, DO, IU Health Bloomington Emergency Medicine physician.
Research from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows about 74% of firework- related injuries happen in the weeks before and after July 4. The National Fire Protection Association reports that most of the thousands of people injured while using consumer fireworks over the holiday are children or teenagers.
“Mishandling or malfunctioning of fireworks is a major concern, as are fireworks that land on people, houses, or flammable things like dry grass,” said Dr. Adams. “We also see individuals come in for medical concerns caused by hot grills, alcohol consumption, and more.”-
This can include respiratory issues or allergic reactions caused by smoke from fireworks, grills, fires, etc. Heat-related illnesses and skin concerns from being outdoors without proper protection from the sun or insects can also lead to a need for medical intervention.
Here are some tips for staying safe while enjoying the holiday:
Have a meet-up point or a plan in case someone—especially children—gets separated
from your group.
Keep children and pets away from grills and campfires.
Let grills air out before lighting them so unignited, pooled gas doesn’t explode.
Never allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers.
Keep pets indoors and in a secure environment during fireworks displays.
Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.
Never light fireworks indoors.
Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of
fire.
“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,” said Dr. Adams. “Using noise-canceling headphones or other noise-reducing ear protection, closing blinds to block flashing lights, using breathing exercises, and creating comforting distractions like playing music you enjoy are some actions that may help.”
You can also speak with your primary care provider about additional options.
“To our community members, I encourage you to be safe while enjoying this holiday,” said Dr. Adams. “While Emergency departments and first responders are here to help, we know you’d much rather be enjoying the festivities instead of coming into the hospital because of an injury or medical issue.”
Emergency departments are here to help with medical emergencies 24/7, 365. Please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department if you need emergency help.
For minor injuries or illnesses, such as small burns, cuts, sprains, or rashes, convenient care options are available to help. IU Health Urgent Care provides walk-in access for in-person evaluation and treatment, while IU Health On-Demand Virtual Visits let you connect online with a provider from home for quick guidance and care.
