4th of July Safety Tips

Lighting fireworks to celebrate our nation’s birthday is an annual tradition that is fun but can also be dangerous. Between 2006 and 2021, injuries by fireworks climbed 25% in the U.S. In 2021 alone, 11,500 people were injured in incidents involving fireworks, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates.

By following these firework safety tips, you can avoid adding a visit to the UF Health Flagler Hospital Emergency Care Center to your holiday plans.

Firework Safety Tips

1. Never allow children to play with fireworks. Consider safer alternatives like confetti poppers, streamers, and glow sticks for children.
2. Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water or a hose close by in case of accidents.
3. Point fireworks away from any homes/buildings and avoid brush, leaves, and flammable substances. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 50,000 fires are caused by fireworks each year.
4. Never throw used fireworks directly in the trash. Soak all fireworks and sparklers in a bucket of water before disposing. This prevents used fireworks from igniting other garbage.
5. If you can, attend a professional fireworks show. This will keep you and your family safe from any firework accidents. The city of St. Augustine has compiled a list of the best events to attend this year to watch fireworks.

UF Health St. JohnsIs Here for You

• In observance of Independence Day on July 4, all UF Health St. Johnssatellite practices are closed. 
• Our Publix telehealth locations, Care Fast+ Urgent Care locations, and the hospital will remain open. Find the closest location to you by visiting our locations page.
• If the injury is a burn, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn. Afterward, ensure the area is clean and dry before covering it with a sterile nonstick bandage.
• Call 911 in the event of an emergency or head to the emergency room.