Trauma in the Emergency Room on the 4th of July
From drunk driving accidents to fireworks injuries, there are plenty of dangers to be on the lookout for over the 4th of July holiday. Many of these injuries will require hospital emergency room visits and the best way to avoid ruining the BBQ is to take steps to prevent injuries before they occur.
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Fireworks Injuries
Fireworks are responsible for causing more than 8,500 injuries each year. Nearly 40% of these are suffered by children under the age of 15. Around the 4th of July holiday, nearly 230 hospital emergency room visits per day are caused by faulty or misused fireworks. Fireworks are capable of causing severe thermal burns, explosive amputations, lacerations, and chemical burns which is why they should never be used by children or those who are under the influence of alcohol. In fact, those who do use fireworks while intoxicated are liable for the injuries their negligent actions cause themselves and others.
Drunk Driving Spikes on the Holiday
Brats and beers are 4th of July staples. While motorists can eat as many sausages as they want, refraining from too much beer and relinquishing the keys to a designated driver is the best way to avoid a trip to the emergency room and the need to hire a car accident lawyer. Similarly, motorists in Nevada should avoid high-traffic areas such as those around parks, lakes, city centers, etc. where fireworks-related celebrations are taking place. These areas often have high-traffic volume immediately following the celebration and it is best to take public transportation to these events. Additionally, motorists should take care to avoid trips late at night as the number of intoxicated motorists is higher than other times of the holiday period.
Get Away from the Grill
Grill related injuries are another common and avoidable cause of 4th of July trips to the hospital emergency room. Partygoers should use extra caution when cooking or standing near gas or charcoal BBQ grills. Injuries caused by grills on the holidays can include thermal burns, smoke inhalation, and puncture wounds. Avoiding these injuries starts by making sure that operators know how to safely operate their grill, and adhering to the manufacturer’s safety recommendations. Moreover, grills should always be placed far away from gathering crowds and should never be put indoors, in garages, or close to combustible material.
