Health Experts Release Unified July Fourth Safety Guidelines as Hospitals Brace for Holiday Injury Surge
Nationwide trauma teams are being mobilized to handle an expected surge in burns, grill explosions, and water rescues over the holiday weekend.
Overview
- Firework accidents totaled 14,700 emergency visits last year, a 52% year-over-year increase that has prompted intensified public safety campaigns.
- Medical leaders have consolidated prevention and first-response advice, instructing individuals to stop, drop and roll, cool burns with running water or a wet cloth, and avoid icing injuries.
- A recent Hollywood, Florida grill explosion highlighted the need to start gas grills with covers open, regularly inspect for propane leaks, and refrain from using alcohol while grilling.
- Officials report that over one-third of firework burns affect hands and fingers and recommend professional displays and propane alarm use to minimize risks.
- In water emergencies, bystanders should immobilize victims on their backs, clear fluid from airways, and perform chest-compression-only CPR until EMS arrives.