Keep Fourth of July Celebrations Safe with These Tips

Fireworks, family gatherings and grilling out are a traditional part of Independence Day celebrations. But the Trident Burn Clinic wants individuals to be aware that there are increased risks of burns associated with the 4th of July holiday. 

"Most of the injuries we see as a result of the July 4th holiday occur in children,” said Dr. Fred Mullins, the president of Joseph M. Still burn Center at Trident Medical Center. He also serves as Medical Director of the Joseph M. Still Burn Center at Doctors Hospital in Augusta, Ga.

“There are no ‘safe’ fireworks,” said Dr. Mullins. “We see burns from sparklers each year, just as we see burns from larger fireworks.  I cannot stress enough that fireworks should only be handled by adults. Let children enjoy the show, not be part of it.”

Other tips for fireworks safety include:

1. Never build or experiment with homemade fireworks.
2. Only adults should handle fireworks.
3. Read and follow all instructions. All fireworks must carry a warning label that contains necessary safety precautions.
4. Make sure spectators are out of range before lighting.
5. Never place your face or any other part of your body over fireworks.
6. Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Soak them with water and throw them away.
7. Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher handy.
8. Only light fireworks on a smooth flat surface away from house, dry leaves and other flammable materials.
9. Never throw, point or shoot fireworks toward people, pets, buildings, or vehicles. Do not use fireworks in a wooded area.

10. Never hold or get close to any lit fireworks.
11. Loose clothing can catch fire, and therefore, should not be worn while handling fireworks.
12. Never let children play with or handle sparklers. The temperature of the ignited tip can reach 1200 degrees Fahrenheit or greater.

When grilling food, it is the little things that make a difference. First, make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from buildings or bushes before you use it. Check gas lines to make sure they are not clogged, do not use gasoline to start a grill and never start a grill with the lid closed.

“Grills get very hot and can be unstable,” Dr. Mullins said. “When you are grilling, make sure you have a safe area of at least three feet around a grill that is off-limits to children.”

 Other grilling tips include:

1. Use utensils with long handles to stay clear of the fire.

2. Dispose of hot coals properly by dousing with water and stirring the ashes.

3. Keep lighter fluid container away from grill.

4. Utility/Barbeque lighters are not safe for children and should not be left outdoors where the elements may weaken or damage the plastic.

5. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when operating a grill.

6. Replace nicked or scratched connectors.

7. Always turn on utility light before you turn on gas or propane.

8. Always shut off propane tank valve when not in use.         

9. Never use a match to check for leaks.

10. Keep gas hoses as far away from grease and hot surfaces as possible.

For more information about the Trident Burn Clinic, visit tridenthealthsystem.com/burnclinic