5 Fourth of July Injuries You Can Easily Prevent
The Fourth of July is a celebration of our nation's independence from colonial rule, and you shouldn't spend it in a hospital waiting room for easily preventable injuries.
The usual culprits of these July holiday injuries are often sources of great joy or entertainment: fireworks, grilled meats, pool parties, lake trips, etc.
So step away from your carefully seasoned marinade and check out these five Fourth of July injuries you can easily prevent:
1. Fireworks-Related Injuries.
Ah, fireworks. Many Americans love to celebrate the independence of our nation by blowing up a small part of it. But aside from getting arrested for setting off illegal fireworks, you could seriously injure yourself if you don't take the proper precautions. Burns, scars, deaths, and lawsuits may replace national pride this Fourth of July unless you make sure to:
- Only use fireworks outside,
- Never relight a "dud" firework,
- Soak expended fireworks and "duds" in bucket of water, and
- Don't drink and light fireworks.
2. BBQ-Related Injuries.
Nothing beats grilling on the Fourth of July, even if it's eggplant or Portobello mushrooms. You don't make friends with salad, but you don't make friends by being horrifically burned either.
Your friends and loved ones will thank you for taking the time to check your gas grill for leaks, keeping flammable items away from the grill, and storing propane tanks in a cool location. And for law's sake, grill outside.
3. Boating Accidents.
Don't want to explain to your friends that you were injured in a boating accident? Set aside some time to take a boating safety course, make sure that kids under 13 all wear life jackets, and definitely do not pilot your boat with Captain Morgan at the helm.
4. Driving Under the Influence.
And on the subject of alcohol, why spend your Fourth of July (or Fifth of July) in a holding cell or hospital because of DUI-related injuries.
Even if you're not the one intoxicated, make sure that all drivers are sober and ready to drive defensively. It might not hurt to also remind Fourth of July party guests that many AAA clubs offer Safe Ride programs on the Fourth.
5. Pool-Related Injuries.
Pools are often the centerpiece of any Fourth of July party. Avoid drownings, slip-and-falls, and other pool-related injuries by keeping your pool properly maintained and have an adult monitor any swimming children.
Keep safe and celebrate our nation's independence this Fourth of July!
Related Resources:
- Don't Get Burned by Fireworks This 4th of July (FindLaw's Injured)
- Top 10 Tips to Prevent Boating Accidents, Injuries (FindLaw's Injured)
- Fourth of July Accident: Fireworks Injure 28 (FindLaw's Injured)
- Avoid Summertime Sadness: 5 Injuries You Can Prevent (FindLaw's Injured)