As families across Snohomish County prepare for Fourth of July celebrations, the Overlake MultiCare’s Lynnwood Emergency Department is sharing important safety reminders to help prevent common holiday injuries related to fireworks, water activities, boating, backyard grilling, and alcohol use.
The Fourth of July is one of the highlights of summer in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re watching fireworks, spending the day on the water, firing up the grill or gathering with family and friends, a little extra caution can help keep your holiday fun and injury-free.
According to Sindy Madrid, BSN, RN, assistant nurse manager at the Lynnwood Emergency Department, Independence Day can be one of the busiest days.
“Every year around the Fourth of July, emergency departments see a rise in preventable injuries related to fireworks, backyard grilling, boating, and water recreation. Fireworks can cause serious burns, eye injuries, and other traumatic injuries in a matter of seconds, so we encourage families to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals whenever possible. If you choose to use legal fireworks, follow all local regulations, keep a safe distance, and never allow young children to handle them,” said Madrid.
Emergency rooms also see burns and injuries associated with backyard barbecues.
“Open flames, hot grill surfaces, and improper handling of propane or charcoal grills can quickly turn a celebration into a trip to the emergency department,” explained Madrid. “Keep grills away from homes, decks, and dry vegetation, never leave a grill unattended, and make sure children and pets stay a safe distance away from cooking areas.”
The holiday weekend also brings an increase in water-related emergencies, noted Madrid. “Parents and caregivers should actively supervise children around pools, lakes and beaches at all times, even if the child knows how to swim. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. Life jackets save lives and should be worn whenever children are near open water or on a boat.”
For those spending time on the water, Madrid advises making safety a priority by wearing properly fitted life jackets, avoiding alcohol while operating a boat, staying aware of weather conditions, and making sure someone knows your plans before heading out.
“The best emergency department visit is the one that never has to happen,” said Madrid. “Celebrate, have fun, but make safety part of your holiday plans so everyone makes it home safely.”
If an emergency does happen, the Lynnwood Emergency Department is open 24/7 and ready to provide care when it’s needed most. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July.
Source: Overlake Hospital
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
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