Maineville OH
7-01-2025 12:20am

Celebrate Smart: Mercy Health urges Fireworks and Water Safety this July 4th

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- Independence Day celebrations are a time for backyard barbecues, brilliant fireworks, and long, sunny days by the water. As families and friends prepare to celebrate, Mercy Health is reminding everyone to prioritize safety to ensure a fun and injury-free holiday.

Fireworks Safety: Keep the Celebration Injury-Free

Burn injuries surge every July, with fireworks being a major contributor. Fire and burns are the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths among children under 14. Each year, approximately 10,000 people are injured by fireworks, including more than 4,000 children.

Here are a few tips to remember so you can have a safe and festive holiday:

  • Leave fireworks to the professionals—attend a public display instead of lighting your own.
  • Do not give sparklers to children as they are the same temperature as a blowtorch. Use glowsticks instead.
  • If you do plan to light fireworks, check with your local police or fire department to understand what’s legal in your area.
  • Only adults should handle fireworks; follow all instructions and warning labels.
  • Be sure spectators are at a safe distance before lighting fireworks.
  • Never place your face or body over fireworks when lighting them.
  • Keep a water source or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
  • Never re-light malfunctioning fireworks; soak them in water and discard safely.
  • Use fireworks on flat, smooth surfaces far from houses, dry grass, and flammable items.
  • Never throw or point fireworks at people, vehicles, buildings, or wooded areas.
  • Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could catch fire.

Water Safety: Enjoy the Water, But Stay Vigilant

In addition to fireworks safety, Mercy Health emphasizes the importance of water safety, especially during summer gatherings near pools, lakes, or rivers. Drowning can happen quickly and silently—even in shallow water.

  • Drowning is a silent event. Direct, constant supervision is the best prevention.
  • Always designate a responsible adult as a "Water Watcher" when no professional lifeguards are present. This person should avoid distractions and never be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Never dive into unknown waters. Lakes and ponds may have hidden sandbars or shallow spots. Always enter the water feet first, unless the area is marked for diving.
  • Use only U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets or personal flotation devices.
  • Avoid inflatable “water wings” without chest pieces—they can easily slip off.
  • Remember: No flotation device can guarantee that an unconscious person will stay face-up in the water.

Whether it’s lighting a sparkler or enjoying time on the water, Mercy Health encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly. Small safety steps can make a big difference in preventing serious injuries or even saving a life.

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