Fourth of July celebrations are just around the corner. For lots of us, that means fireworks, barbecues, and maybe a trip to the beach. Whatever you have planned, the staff at Queen’s North Hawai’i Community Hospital wants you to be safe and offers the following tips to keep a trip to the emergency room off the holiday list.
FIREWORKS SAFETY
Follow directions on all fireworks and don’t use them for anything other than what they’re intended for
Never give fireworks to small children
Never throw or point fireworks toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials
Don’t alter or combine fireworks
Never use homemade fireworks
Have water available when lighting fireworks
Keep spectators a safe distance away
Make sure that whoever is lighting fireworks is sober and wearing safety glasses
Never try to relight a firework that appear to be a “dud”
Dispose of all firework materials by soaking in water before putting in the trash
Keep fireworks and sparklers away from clothing and other flammable materials
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public professional fireworks show
PET PRECAUTIONS
Don’t take your pets to fireworks displays
Don’t leave your pets unattended outside during fireworks
Consider leaving the TV or radio on so your pets won’t hear the fireworks
GRILLING AND FOOD SAFETY
Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use
Keep the grill out in the open, away from anything that could catch fire, and never grill in an enclosed area
Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill
Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited
Beware of outdoor food spoilage – keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold
BEACH SAFETY
Be alert to water conditions, such as water depth and ocean currents, and check with lifeguards
Swim sober and always swim with a buddy
Protect the neck – don’t dive headfirst
Keep constant attention on children while at the beach
SUN PROTECTION
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15 and reapply often
Drink plenty of water and avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine that will dehydrate you
Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that absorb 100 percent UV sunlight
Protect your feet from burning sand and broken glass
