As families across central Illinois prepare to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, cookouts and time on the water, Decatur Memorial Hospital chief medical officer Brandon Koser, DO, is encouraging residents to make safety a priority.
Koser, who also practices in the Emergency Department, said Memorial Health emergency teams routinely treat preventable injuries during the Fourth of July holiday. Many of those injuries involve fireworks, burns, water-related accidents and heat-related illness.
"We see fireworks injuries every year around the Fourth of July, and many people underestimate the risks, " Koser said. "Sparklers may seem harmless, but they can reach temperatures of around 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to cause serious burns in seconds. "
Koser recommends using fireworks only outdoors, keeping them away from people and structures, closely supervising children and never attempting to relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
Backyard grilling and fire pits also contribute to holiday injuries. Koser advises keeping grills in stable, open areas, avoiding the use of accelerants on active flames and ensuring children understand that surfaces may remain hot long after a fire is extinguished.
Water safety is another major concern during holiday gatherings. "One of the most common situations we encounter is when everyone assumes someone else is watching the water, " Koser said. "It only takes a few seconds for a child or an adult who cannot swim to get into trouble. "
Koser recommends designating a specific adult to actively supervise swimmers, minimizing distractions, using life jackets on open water and avoiding alcohol when swimming or boating.
Summer heat can also create dangerous conditions. Koser encourages people to stay hydrated throughout the day and watch for symptoms of heat-related illness, including dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, fatigue and headaches.
While prevention is the best strategy, Koser said it is important to seek medical attention when serious injuries occur.
Residents should seek emergency care for burns that blister or affect the face, hands or joints, any eye injury caused by fireworks, signs of drowning or breathing difficulties after water exposure, and severe symptoms of heat illness.
"Our emergency teams are always ready no matter what the situation, " Koser said. "But we would rather see people enjoying the holiday than needing our care. A little advanced planning can help keep celebrations safe and enjoyable for everyone. "