Fireworks are one of the best parts of the Fourth of July, but they’re far from the safest part. Did you know that there are about 10,000 fireworks-related injuries every year, according to the CPSC? What Fourth of July safety tips can help you avoid adding to such a statistic?
Shelby, NC, is an excellent city to spend the Fourth of July. Whether you’re here for the Earl Scruggs Music Center, the towering oaks, or just to enjoy the pleasant summer season, the City of Pleasant Living is a tough spot to beat!
If you’re curious about Fourth of July safety tips, we’re here to offer our assistance. Read on for a quick overview of holiday precautions in assisted living communities.
Fourth of July Safety Tips: Fireworks
Fireworks are the first thing most of us think about when the Fourth of July comes to mind. The “rockets’ red glare” over the nighttime skies of a North Carolina summer is as iconic as it could be.
Unfortunately, fireworks are also the biggest threat to safety in most cases. Here are some of the most important senior-friendly holiday tips.
Mobility Challenges and Fireworks
As we age, we naturally slow down, often facing some mobility challenges. According to the Census, there are more than 10 million seniors dealing with difficulties climbing or walking.
These issues are a challenge on any standard day. But in your time with fireworks, mobility issues make it much harder to get to safety if something happens. Because of this, it’s safer to focus on avoiding anything that creates an explosion.
Make sure you’re familiar with what’s legal in the Shelby area. The law prohibits most fireworks for personal use. Take the time to go see a local show instead!
Leave the Lighting to Others
Lighting fireworks is half the fun, but it’s also most of the danger. It’s safer to let other people light the fireworks to cut down on risk.
That’s even more so the case for older adults dealing with some mobility problems. It’s a balancing risk to bend to light your fireworks, while even carrying the fireworks can cause some strain. Even without the balance, bending can cause dizziness and falls!
Instead of deciding on being the one to light the family’s fireworks, leave it to your friends. We also strongly recommend attending fireworks shows by others. If you intend to do so in a crowd, make sure you’re taking the right memory care safety precautions to avoid panic or wandering.
Crowds and Heat Safety for Older Adults
What else should you keep in mind for lively community activities this Fourth of July? Here are some Fourth of July safety tips that focus more on the weather and crowds than the shows.
Handling the Sun
Many of the best Fourth of July events take place during the daytime. But spending an entire day outside in the middle of the Shelby Summer can lead to serious complications.
Direct sun exposure can lead to sunburn, sun sickness, and even sun poisoning. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, seniors are more susceptible to ultraviolet light due to increased sun exposure.
Make sure that you’re seeking shade when you can. Additionally, consider precautions such as:
- Bringing high-SPF sunscreen
- Wearing skin-covering, lightweight clothes
- Bringing a parasol or other portable shade
- Wearing large-brimmed hats to keep the sun off your face and neck
Battling the Crowds
Disorientation is a huge threat to seniors when attending events. Older adults focused on memory care safety are especially at risk.
Ensure that you’re taking the proper memory care precautions during your July 4th safety planning. Consider how large any events you’re attending will be and what you’ll need to keep each other safe. Some things to keep in mind are:
- How will mobility issues impact this event?
- Do we have somewhere safe to meet up if separated?
- How many people will be attending my group?
- How large of a crowd am I expecting?
We also recommend bringing ear protection, such as earplugs or sound-resistant headphones. These will help lower the volume of the crowd, make the sound of fireworks more manageable, and reduce disorientation.
Always moving in a group will reduce any issues with getting lost or wandering off. It also ensures that anyone who needs assistance will have someone there ready to help.
Handling Heat
July 4th safety planning needs to focus on how dangerous the heat can become for seniors. According to a recent study from Harvard, 12,000 people in the United States die of heat-related causes annually. Roughly 4 in every 5 of these individuals are seniors.
Managing the heat is one of the most important steps. Some ways to do so include:
- Find the shade to avoid direct sunlight
- Attend nighttime festivities
- Bring cold towels, water, etc., to keep your body temperature down
If you feel yourself getting overheated, take the time to step away from the festivities and cool down. You should not hesitate to seek medical attention in this situation.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Hydration is also a vital step. According to the Cleveland Clinic, older adults are more at risk of dehydration.
Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, and more dangerous symptoms. Seniors may struggle more than most with dehydration, as it can worsen existing symptoms. Make sure that you and your loved ones are staying fully hydrated.
Holding Safe Celebrations for Seniors
Having the right Fourth of July safety tips is important to make sure that you can enjoy your holiday without any unfortunate accidents. Focus on hydration and the danger of overheating first, as these are some of the most dangerous possibilities. Once you know everyone is safe from the weather, ensure that fireworks and any events are being handled safely.
At TerraBella Shelby, we’re proud to celebrate the Fourth of July with our seniors. Our community offers a quiet city with a mix of history, music, food, and culture, along with the safety to enjoy it all. Schedule a tour to see how we can help your golden years shine.
