Independence Day is a time for family, fun, and food. While many people travel up north, head out on the lake, or trek to the park for fireworks, no one wants to take a trip to the emergency department.
According to Pew Research, the July 4 holiday leads to a spike in emergency department visits. July 4 and 5 bring an average of 45,000 daily emergency department visits. That’s in contrast to about, 40,700 visits on a typical summer day.
“With awareness, planning, and precautions in place, you can avoid a hospital visit and ensure you can enjoy the day with family and friends,” says Dr. Jocko Zifferblatt, an Emergency Medical Physician at the newly opened ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac and ThedaCare Medical Center-New London.
Why the Uptick?
It’s not difficult to guess one of the big reasons behind the increase in emergency department visits: fireworks. Beyond that, summer days also can lead to heat-related illnesses, drownings, and foodborne illnesses, among other accidents and injuries.
“Don’t overlook alcohol as a contributing factor in accidents and injuries,” Dr. Zifferblatt says. “Heavy drinking causes impairment and poor judgement. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation to ensure you and those around you stay safe.”
Common July 4 Injuries and Illnesses
Dr. Zifferblatt discusses common July 4 injuries, illnesses, and safety hazards and provides tips for avoiding them.
1. Fireworks
Fireworks can lead to burns and other injuries. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public show. If you light fireworks at home, remember these key safety rules.
- Refrain from using illegal fireworks.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Don’t allow young children to light fireworks.
- Keep fireworks away from people, animals, vehicles, and structures.
- Place a bucket of water nearby in case of emergency and to fully extinguish fireworks after use.
2. Burns
Bonfires and grilling are 4th traditions for many. Follow these safety tips to avoid burns.
- Exercise caution around bonfires: Avoid alcohol use, walk and step carefully to avoid falls, and keep children from engaging in horseplay.
- Place grills on a level surface outside and away from the house and any trees.
- Stay close to your grill to make sure no one runs into it.
- Wear clothing that won’t interfere with the cooking process while grilling.
3. Heat safety
There’s a good chance July 4 will be hot. Here’s how to keep your cool.
- Stay well-hydrated with non-alcoholic drinks.
- Keep an eye on older friends and loved ones, as they can be more susceptible to heat-related illness.
- Take breaks indoors and spend time in the shade.
- Limit exercise during the hottest part of the day.
- Know the signs of heatstroke: hot, flushed, and dry skin; confusion; rapid breathing; headache; nausea and vomiting; and a temperature above 103 degrees.
4. Boating accidents
July 4 is one of the most popular days for boating. Follow these steps to remain safe on the water.
- Avoid alcohol if you’re driving.
- Make sure everyone wears a life jacket.
- Operate at a safe speed.
- Pay attention to your surroundings.
- Follow local boating rules.
5. Swimming
Swimming and hot summer days go hand in hand. Ensure the fun day doesn’t take a tragic turn.
- Don’t swim alone.
- Know the area where you’re swimming.
- Avoid currents and other hazards.
- Swim in areas with a lifeguard if possible.
- Don’t drink alcohol if you plan to swim.
- Keep a constant eye on children: Drowning is a leading cause of death in kids and can happen in an instant.
- Exercise caution with diving into pools and lakes. Diving into shallow water can lead to devastating head and neck injuries.
6. Foodborne illnesses
With warm weather, food safety becomes extra important. Don’t let a bout of foodborne illness ruin your day.
- To avoid the development of bacteria, keep hot food hot and cold food cold.
- Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw and cooked foods.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to a safe temperature.
- Thoroughly wash your hands after handling raw meat.
- Wash all fruit and vegetables.
- If in doubt, throw it out.
7. Heart attacks
Hot temperatures can strain the heart. Take steps to keep your heart safe.
- Stay hydrated, but talk to your doctor about how to do so safely if you have heart disease. Certain conditions can lead to sensitivity around fluid intake.
- Exercise in the morning or evening, when it’s cooler.
- Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.
- Take plenty of breaks from the heat.
- Stay on top of taking your medications as prescribed.
Finally, while not usually an emergency, no one wants to wind up with sunburn. Apply sunscreen frequently, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, and consider wearing a hat.
Care When and Where You Need It
Don’t delay emergency care. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Heavy bleeding
- Neck and spine injuries
- Serious head injuries
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe burns
- Severe broken bones
- Severe chest pain or pressure
- Severe cuts with major bleeding
ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah is home to the health system’s only Level II trauma center. Emergency care also is available at ThedaCare hospitals in Appleton, Berlin, Fond du Lac, Neenah, New London, Shawano, Waupaca, and Wild Rose.
“Even if you follow all the safety rules, accidents can still happen,” Dr. Zifferblatt says. “Our teams are here for you in the event of an emergency.”
