Celebrating Fourth of July?

Happy Fourth of July Weekend! I am Mary Ann Contreras, one of the Trauma Coordinators here at Texas Health Harris Methodist Ft. Worth. A main focus of my job is injury prevention. Many traumas are predictable and preventable. So, occasionally you will see a blog from me on ways to avoid or even foil unnecessary trouble. Remember that old saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Here are a few tips to help you stay safe this Fourth of July weekend:

1) Fireworks are a tradition that many Texans participate in. They can be beautiful but at the same time, if not handled with care are potentially deadly. Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix—have a “designated shooter”. Also, never try to relight a “dud”. Instead wait 20 minutes, and then put it in a bucket filled with water.

2) There are always kiddos at my cookouts, and at times it is difficult to keep a close eye on them. Assigning adults “child watch” duty for thirty minute increments is a winning solution for everyone. Children account for nearly half of all injuries from fireworks, usually involving hands and fingers.

3) The Fourth is also a day to pack up the family, and hit the highway for some fun on vacation. This weekend can be a great opportunity to enjoy your family, especially if a few simple precautions are taken.

• Whether celebrating the 4th on a road trip or at home, drinking and driving is never a good idea. Of course a seatbelt is the best defense against a drunk driver. That goes for child passenger seats too.


• Recent studies have also shown that distracted driving such as cell phone use or texting can prove just as dangerous.


• These same rules apply to boating. You know, just keeping a clear head while having fun will serve well for future memories. The lakes are sure to be full of fun seekers this weekend. Make sure to have enough life vests for all your crew and take plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.


• And, any time spent around water requires constant monitoring of children. It only takes one moment to drown but a lifetime to forget.

So, go out and enjoy our nation’s birthday. Our country is the best in the world. Take care of yourself and your family and friends. It is something that we do well here at Texas Health.