When the Sparks Fly
While watching fireworks in the summer can be fun, make sure to protect yourself and others by practicing the following safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
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Only use fireworks outdoors.
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Keep a bucket of water or water hose on hand for emergencies.
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Obey local fireworks laws.
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Use fireworks only as intended and never re-light fireworks.
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The shooter should wear safety goggles, and spectators should maintain a safe distance from the shooter.
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Never allow anyone under age 12 to handle sparklers.
In the United States, nearly 120 million ED visits occur each year, with a substantial number of those taking place during the summer. “We see a lot of injuries from summer activities such as biking, skateboarding, and performing home improvements, as well as those that are water- and sports-related,” says David Bauer, MD, Chief of Emergency Medicine at Crittenton Hospital Medical Center. “Reduce your risk of injury by learning and practicing summer safety.”Some of summer’s most common injuries and illnesses involve plants, pavement, insects, water, sun, fireworks, and sports, but you can take precautions to avoid injury.
Poison Ivy
Rashes and irritation can result from contact with poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. Not everyone responds to plant contact in the same way—some people have reactions to oil or resin in the plants, causing the skin to develop a red, itchy rash, while others do not. “Know what poisonous plants look like so you can stay away from them,” says Dr. Bauer. “If you do come into contact with one, try not to scratch the area. Scratching can spread the oil to different parts of the body, thus spreading the rash. Wash all exposed areas thoroughly after contact to help reduce this risk.” If you have poison ivy, oak, or sumac in your yard, do not mow over or burn it, as the dust can travel through the air and into the lungs, causing severe respiratory problems.
Bee Stings
The first step toward avoiding bee stings is to stay away from bees, although that can be tricky, especially if you are caught off guard during activities like hiking and camping. “Late summer is the peak of bee season,” says Dr. Bauer. “If you or someone you know is allergic to bees or wasps, you may reconsider having an event outdoors.” If you decide to have an event outside and know a bee hive or wasp nest is nearby, use fogging agents or repellents and wear shoes while outdoors, as bee stings can occur on the feet. If a sting occurs, watch for symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction and require immediate attention, which include:
Water Safety
Water and boating accidents happen more often than many people realize. When near or playing in water, it’s important to be aware of everyone’s location at all times. “Typically when groups of people are together, there’s an assumption that ‘someone else’ is watching the kids,” says Dr. Bauer. “That is when most near-drowning incidents occur. Always designate someone to supervise or take shifts watching children.” Other water safety tips include:
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Don’t swim or go boating when or after consuming alcohol.
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Ensure all gates around pools are locked when unoccupied.
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Stay hydrated when spending time in the water.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a condition that can develop after extensive time in hot temperatures in combination with a lack of fluid intake.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
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Cool, clammy skin
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Dizziness
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Fainting
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Heavy sweating
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Muscle cramps
“Heat exhaustion can become severe and advance to heatstroke—which can be fatal—if left untreated,” says Dr. Bauer. “Help prevent heat exhaustion by drinking plenty of water and having it with you at all times. Be sure to hydrate at least 30 minutes prior to going outside, take frequent breaks, and drink water even before you feel thirsty—especially if you are elderly or have a heart condition. Wear light, highly reflective clothing and a hat, as a lot of moisture can be lost through the head.”
Sports Injuries
Summer brings out the athlete in all of us. However, it’s important to remember to warm up, stretch properly, and wear appropriate footwear and athletic wear for running and sports. “We see a lot of wrist and ankle fractures that could be avoided if proper equipment, such as wrist guards or footwear, were used,” says Dr. Bauer. “When playing outdoors, be sure to wear shoes to avoid puncture wounds on the bottom of the feet.”If you suspect a broken bone, typical signs to look for include swelling, pain, limping, or inability to bear weight. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention.
Bikes and Skateboards
Falls from bikes and skateboards are very common—and so are the injuries that accompany them. Wear a helmet, wrist guards, and kneepads to significantly reduce the risk of severe bike or skateboard injuries. “Helmets can reduce the risk of an open head wound and protect the brain from trauma when worn correctly,” says Dr. Bauer. If you or a loved one falls and hits his or her head, go to the ED to have it examined. “Crittenton’s ED is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” says Dr. Bauer. “Although not every injury or illness requires a trip to the ED, never hesitate to go if you’re in doubt. It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
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Nausea
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Paleness
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Tiredness
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Weakness
To find a physician at Crittenton Hospital Medical Center, visit www.crittenton.com or call the physician referral line at 888-904-4325.