You want your children to have fun today, yet, you also want to know how to keep your children safe this 4th of July.
As we celebrate our nation’s independence today, festivities of all shapes and sizes make for fun for all ages.
However, with the sun, the Texas heat, the crowds, the water, and yes . . . fireworks, opportunities for some tough situations make for potential fun spoilers. it’s important to remember to keep our children safe.
With all the excitement of fireworks, parades, and cookouts, it can be easy to forget about the potential dangers.
Fourth of July Safety Tips
- Supervise children closely at all times. This means keeping an eye on them even when you think they are safe. For example, if they are playing in the backyard, make sure you can see them from the window or the porch. If they are swimming, stay within arm’s reach. And if they are watching fireworks, make sure they are sitting far enough away and that they are not holding any fireworks themselves.
- Never leave children unattended in a car, even for a few minutes. The temperature in a car can rise quickly, even on a mild day. In just a few minutes, the temperature inside a car can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be fatal for children. If you have to run an errand, take your child with you or leave them with a responsible adult.
- Make sure children wear sunscreen and protective clothing when they are outdoors. The sun’s rays can be especially strong during the summer months, and it’s important to protect children’s skin. Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before going outside and should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if the child is sweating or swimming. Children should also wear a hat and sunglasses to protect their face and eyes from the sun.
- Encourage children to drink plenty of fluids. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Children should drink water throughout the day, even if they are not thirsty. They should also avoid sugary drinks, which can dehydrate them.
- Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat exhaustion is a mild form of heat illness that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Heatstroke is a more serious condition that can be life-threatening. If you think your child may be experiencing heat exhaustion or heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately.
- Be aware of the dangers of fireworks. Fireworks can be dangerous, even for adults. They can cause burns, eye injuries, and even death. It’s important to keep children away from fireworks and to supervise them closely if they are watching fireworks displays. If you are going to set off fireworks yourself, make sure you follow all safety instructions carefully.
Additional Safety Tips for 4th of July Events
- Plan ahead. If you are attending a fireworks display, make sure to know where the designated viewing areas are and how you will get there. This will help you to avoid crowds and to find a safe place to watch the fireworks.
- Bring a stroller or wagon for young children. This will make it easier to keep them safe and close to you. It will also give them a place to sit down if they get tired.
- Bring plenty of snacks and drinks. This will help to keep them hydrated and prevent them from getting hungry. It is also a good idea to bring some snacks that are easy to eat, such as fruit, vegetables, and crackers.
- Bring a first-aid kit. This will be helpful in case of any minor injuries, such as scrapes, cuts, or insect bites.
- Be prepared for crowds. Fourth of July events can be crowded, so be patient and allow extra time to get where you are going. If you are bringing young children, it may be helpful to arrive early so that you can find a good spot to sit and watch the fireworks.
- Stay calm. If your child starts to feel overwhelmed, try to stay calm and reassuring. Let them know that everything is okay and that you are there for them.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your children safe and have a happy and healthy Fourth of July!
Enjoy the holiday!
© 127 Pediatrics; June 2023
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.
Dr. Andrea Wadley is the owner, pediatrician, and breastfeeding medicine specialist for 127 Pediatrics. She has an established house-calls-only concierge pediatric practice in Colleyville, TX. She is also the owner and operator of the 127 Pediatrics Online Breastfeeding Medicine and Education Center.
