Independence Day is right around the corner, and many families in Texas are preparing for backyard barbeques, pool parties, and firework viewings. However, it’s important to remember that safety is always the number one priority. Here are a few ways that you can help ensure that your holiday celebrations remain safe for all.
Use Fireworks with Caution
When thinking of the Fourth of July, whose mind doesn’t flash to images of beaming red, white, and blue fireworks lighting up the night sky? While a popular tradition for celebrating this holiday, fireworks and firecrackers can cause severe injuries when they are mishandled or malfunction.
Firework accidents most commonly cause burns and other injuries to the face, eyes, hands, and fingers. To prevent these from occurring on the Fourth of July, here are a few safety tips:
Only ignite one device at a time
Do not attempt to reignite a firework if it does not go off
Keep a bucket of water and a hose nearby
Do not allow children to ignite fireworks
Only purchase legal fireworks that follow local laws
Be Wary in Water
If you’re planning a pool party this holiday, please keep in mind that drowning accidents occur more frequently during the summer months and holidays when more people are drinking alcohol.
Young children are at an increased risk of drownings. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that about one in five people who die from drownings are children aged 14 years old or younger. In order to help prevent drownings and other swimming pool accidents, it’s recommended that a few extra safety precautions be taken:
Have at least one sober adult supervising children in the water at all times
Never completely rely on floaties, life jackets, or other life-saving devices to prevent children from drowning
Set up a four-sided perimeter around all bodies of water to prevent young children from jumping or falling in while unsupervised
Use “touch supervision,” which means having children within an arm’s reach in the pool
Make sure at least one adult present knows CPR
Drive Sober
Many Fourth of July celebrations include drinking alcohol. However, keep in mind that more drunk driving accidents occur during this holiday as well. In 2018, 40% of all crash fatalities involved alcohol-impaired drivers.
If you are going to be drinking, make sure to designate a sober driver or call a rideshare vehicle or cab to prevent getting behind the wheel while impaired.
We hope that these safety tips help you and your family stay safe during your Independence Day celebrations. If you or a loved one is injured during this time, our firm is here to help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries so you can focus on healing the right way.
Contact the Law Offices of Vic Feazell at (254) 938-6885 to get started with a free consultation.