4th Of July Safety – Boats & Fireworks

Summer is all about spending time in the sun, being on the water and seeing friends and family. From celebrating on the 4th of July to Friday night barbecues, there’s no shortage of good times. However, along with the games and relaxation, safety can sometimes be overlooked. It is important to always be aware of the risk that comes along with long days in the sun, boat rides and fireworks. Luckily, there are easy steps you can take to make sure your summer is smooth sailing.  

Boat Safety

While spending the day swimming, cruising and tubing on a boat is blast, it can go south quickly if the right safety measures are not being followed. There are many to preparations to be aware of before setting off for the day and rules to follow while you are out in the water, including:

• Always wear the correct size life jackets & have enough for every person in attendance (even if he/she knows how to swim)
• Make sure you have everything you need on your boat, especially water, food and a first aid kit
• Do not drink & drive a boat
• Know your limits & use common sense in decisions, specifically in regards to weather & dangerous currents
• When tubing, water-skiing, etc. always have a spotter & use common hand signals

Following these guidelines is extremely important for the safety & wellbeing of everyone involved in your boating day. In 2019, the Coast Guard counted 4,168 accidents that involved 613 deaths, 2,559 injuries and approximately $55 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents. Staying alert, using common sense and following standard boating/water safety rules will be the key to a perfect, easy-going day on the water.

Firework Safety

With the 4th of July quickly approaching, it’s important to follow recommended guidelines when using fireworks of any kind. 

While no 4th of July celebration is complete without fireworks, it is important to follow all safety guidelines when using them. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2018, there were 9,100 firework-related injuries treated in hospitals all across the United States. To avoid the summer celebration ending with an Emergency Room trip, follow these guidelines from the CPSC:

• Never allow young children to directly play with or ignite the fireworks
• Always have adults supervise firework activities, including the use of sparklers 
• Never hover over a firework when lighting
• Always back up to a safe distance (approximately 30ft) after lighting
• Never try to re-light or pickup fireworks that did not fully ignite
• Never point or throw at another person
• Keep a bucket of water available in case of fire
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in a container
• Douse the used fireworks in water before throwing away to prevent a trash fire
• Only use legal fireworks 

Summer Activities With Covid-19

In addition to boating and firework safety, it is important to remember that COVID-19 is still a threat. Throughout days at the lake, summer barbecues and 4th of July celebrations, please continue to social distance and wear a mask whenever possible. If you start showing symptoms including but not limited to a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath, call your doctor and do not venture out into the community until further instruction. 

Townsen Memorial Hospital Is Here For You

At Townsen Memorial Hospital in Humble, TX, our medical staff is trained to care for and treat any injuries, including those from boating and firework accidents. You can find us off of 59N and FM 1960 at the corner of 1960 & Townsen Rd. for 24/7 emergency care. To learn more, visit our website or call 1-877-494-9487.