Independence Day may look a bit different this year compared to most. Due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, many local Fourth of July events, including firework shows, have been canceled. But the coronavirus isn’t stopping everyone from enjoying their favorite holiday. Some families are preparing to celebrate from home with backyard barbeques, swimming pools, and fireworks.
It’s important to remember that accidents can happen when we least expect them, especially when we let our guards down. Here are some of the most common accidents and injuries that occur during the Fourth of July and how you can make sure that safety stays on everyone’s radar.
Firework Accidents
When you think of the Fourth of July, your mind probably wanders to dazzling images of red, white, and blue fireworks lighting up the night sky. However, because many So-Cal firework shows are canceled this year, the sale of illegal fireworks has skyrocketed over the past few weeks.
While they are a popular tradition, fireworks are also a leading cause of injuries and emergency room visits during this holiday. Most firework-related injuries include burns to the hands, fingers, face, eyes, and arms.
There are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to fireworks:
DO:
- Store all fireworks in a safe and dry place
- Light one firework at a time
- Always have a source of water on hand, such as a hose, fire extinguisher, or water bucket
- Follow all local and state ordinances for size and type of firework you can buy and use yourself
- Have an adult supervising children at all times
DON’T:
- Allow children to light fireworks themselves
- Purchase illegal fireworks
- Pick up duds or try to reignite them
- Shoot fireworks in glass or metal containers
Learn more about firework regulations on the County of Los Angeles Fire Department website.
Swimming Pool Accidents
Southern California residents are no strangers to the summer heat, and a popular way to get some relief from the sun is by hopping in the pool. But before planning a swim for Independence Day, it’s crucial to understand some key stats and safety precautions.
Drowning can happen quickly and silently, and young children are at an increased risk of fatal drowning accidents. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show 20% of unintentional drowning victims are children aged 14 years or younger. For every child that dies of drowning, another five are treated in the emergency room for non-fatal injuries.
To reduce the risk of drowning in any swimming environment, make sure to:
- Have at least one sober adult supervising children at all times
- Keep all toddlers within one arm’s reach in the pool
- Teach all children how to swim
- Never rely completely on life jackets or other floatation devices to prevent children from drowning
- Set up a four-sided perimeter around all bodies of water to prevent children from accidentally falling in or jumping in unsupervised
- Have at least one person present who knows cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Car Accidents
Many Independence Day celebrations involve alcoholic beverages, but keep in mind that it is one of the deadliest holidays on the road due to drunk driving accidents. In 2018, 40% of car crash fatalities during the Fourth of July were due to alcohol-impaired drivers.
This Fourth of July may look a bit different compared to most, but one thing remains the same: drunk driving is dangerous. Never let anyone get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, including yourself. If you are going to party, then party with a plan and prevent drunk driving by following these tips:
- Designate a sober driver
- Use public transportation
- Plan to stay the night if it’s at the home of someone you trust
- Call a rideshare or taxi cab
- Have non-alcoholic beverages available for guests
Helping Our Communities Stay Safe
We believe that education is key to prevention, especially when it comes to accidents and injuries. All of us at Effres & Effres hope that these tips help you and your family stay safe this Fourth of July.
If you or a loved one is, in fact, injured in an accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm. We are here to provide seasoned legal assistance to those injured across Southern California so they are able to physically, emotionally, and financially recover.
Contact Effres & Effres at (818) 222-9720 to schedule your free, no-obligation case review.