Celebrating the 4th of July

Grilling, sun, and fireworks are fun and Independence Day is the perfect time to experience them all! Whether you are vacationing for the holiday or staying local, let’s address a few important facts that may help you stay safe while celebrating the good ol’ red, white, and blue.

Nothing feels quite as American as a juicy burger fresh off the grill. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 8,800 home fires are caused by grilling, and close to half of all injuries involving grills are due to thermal burns. The NFPA also recognizes July as the peak month for grill fires. Following a few standard safety rules should greatly decrease the probability of any grill-related fires or injuries.

For grilling safety tips, visit http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/outdoors/grilling/grilling-safety-tips.

The sizzle of the hot summer sun on the 4^th of July just feels right. Just don’t let the heat of the moment cloud your judgment from using adequate protection against the sun’s harmful rays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say, “The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes,” and the sun’s rays are most hazardous between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so don’t be caught unaware in your swimwear! Implementing sun safety measures will ensure an enjoyable day that won’t burn you later.

For sun safety tips, visit http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm.

The explosion of sound and color emitted from fireworks makes for a dazzling end to a historically significant day, but try not to let the excitement of the 4^th overcome your good judgment. Becoming a victim of a firework related injury is easy, but completely preventable! According to a 2013 report from the NFPA, “U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,400 people for fireworks related injuries.” Stay safe this holiday by leaving the firework displays to the professionals! Remember, consumer fireworks are illegal in the state of Iowa, with exception to sparklers and black snake fireworks.

For more firework safety tips, visit http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/holidays/fireworks/fireworks-safety-tips.

Remember the Manatt Family Urgent Care will be open normal business hours Friday, July 3, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. Should an emergency arise this weekend, remember our emergency department is open 24/7. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Happy 4th of July!