Don’t Play with Fire – Summer Fire Prevention and Safety Tips

Summer is heating up, which means it’s time for backyard barbecues, celebrations, and overall fun in the sun! Fireworks and grills are staples for a summer evening gathering. However, when used improperly, serious burns and other injuries can occur. To ensure a safe summer, it’s important to learn basic fire prevention and safety tips before your next cookout.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Did you know an estimated 280 people visit the hospital every day for fireworks-related injuries during the month of July? Keep your loved ones safe this season and follow these fireworks safety tips:

1. Avoid purchasing fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. Fireworks in brown paper packaging are for professional use only, posing a potential risk for consumers.
2. Keep a bucket of water nearby. Mishaps can occur in a matter of seconds. In the event of an emergency, be sure to keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
3. Consider safer alternatives. Did you know that sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees? The National Fire Protection Association states that sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. Consider a safer alternative, such as handing out glow sticks or confetti poppers during your next event.

While the above tips will help ensure a safer environment for you and your loved ones, always remember that it’s best to leave the fireworks show to the professionals.

Backyard Grilling Safety Tips

Grilling season is here! While cooking your hotdog, hamburger, or entrée of choice, don’t forget to follow these top backyard grilling safety tips:

4. Clean your grill. Make sure to remove any grease and residue from your grill after each use.
5. Wear appropriate attire. While manning the grill, keep a close eye on apron strings or sleeves that may be hanging near the open flame.
6. Cook with long-handled utensils. Utensils with long handles will help avoid burns or splatter, so keep them in mind when you reach into the utensil drawer.

Even with preventative measures, accidents can occur in a split second. At The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, we are experts in treating complicated burn injuries and providing secondary burn revision procedures. The procedures include everything from skin grafts and scar revision to complex hand reconstruction.

To learn more, visit The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction website and our expert plastic reconstructive surgeons. If you are seeking additional information on summer fire safety, visit the U.S. Fire Administration website.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and happy summer!

References:

https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks

https://www.hpba.org/Consumer-Information/Barbecue-Outdoor-Living/Grill-Safety

https://www.nfpa.org/

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/