Celebrating the Fourth of July is an exciting tradition for many, especially when it’s full of special events with friends and loved ones. Plus, we all love a mid-week vacation day! We wish all our readers a safe and happy Independence Day.
While you’re celebrating the holiday, keep in mind that this holiday also sees a high number of accidents and injuries from a variety of sources. So, before you head to the lake or to a cookout, keep the below safety tips in mind so you can enjoy a wonderful Fourth of July holiday.
drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving is a constant concern, but it even more prevalent around the holidays. In fact, some studies show that July 4 is the deadliest holiday involving alcohol-related accidents. Last year between July 1 and the morning of July 5, 188 people lost their lives nationwide in accidents that involved drunk drivers. Always be prepared, and never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Call an Uber, Lyft, or have a designated driver. AAA and Budweiser are also teaming up to get people home for free if needed. The program is called “Tow to Go”, and membership is not necessary for a free ride. Plan ahead, be responsible, and help keep the holiday safe for all.
firework Safety
It doesn’t quite feel like a Fourth of July celebration without enjoying fireworks, but they can also be dangerous and are the cause of many accidents every year. It’s usually safest to enjoy a fireworks show at an event assembled by professionals, but we know many like to enjoy them at home as well. Below are a few firework safety tips to keep in mind:
- Research local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- An adult should always supervise fireworks; never allow children to use them.
- Do not consume alcohol while using fireworks.
- Use fireworks outside in an open area; away from vehicles and buildings.
- Light one firework at a time and move quickly away upon lighting.
- Have a bucket of water or a water hose nearby in case of an accident.
- Responsibly discard of used fireworks by wetting them down and placing them in a metal trash can. It is best to keep them away from buildings and combustibles until they are taken out.
Last year, hospital emergency rooms in the U.S. treated almost 13,000 people for firework-related injuries. Of that number 54% of them were extreme injuries, and children under the age of 15 accounted for 36% of the injuries. Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including structure fires, vehicle fires, and others – resulting in an average of $43 million in property damage. So while fireworks are fun and exciting, be mindful of their potential dangers and help keep everyone safe.
Marietta’s Fourth in the Park celebration starts today and includes a parade, live music, museum tours, arts and crafts, food, games, and a fireworks finale at dark. This is the great way to enjoy fireworks, as well as a fun-filled day of activities for all.
We hope you enjoy this 4th of July holiday with family and friends and have a safe and fun-filled day!
Categories: Auto Accidents, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injuries, Drunk Driving, Personal Injury, Safety Tips, Summer Safety, Texting Accidents, Wrongful Death
