Stay safe this Memorial Day
Parkland experts warn of increased drowning and burn risks over holiday weekend
Memorial Day, widely considered the unofficial start to summer, is just around the corner and experts at Parkland Health want to remind the community of the dangers of drowning or accidental burns. With many families making plans to spend the day outdoors near a body of water or around a bonfire, it’s important that safety be a top priority.
Last year, Texas Game Wardens reported a rise in drownings during Memorial Day weekend. Drowning remains a leading cause of death each year for children ages 1 to 4 in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Water safety always starts with close supervision, especially for families with young children,” said Courtney Edwards, DNP, MPH, RN, CCRN, CEN, TCRN, NEA-BC, Director of Trauma Community Outreach in Parkland Memorial Hospital’s Rees-Jones Trauma Center. “Whether you’re at the pool, the lake, or on a boat, make sure everyone wears a properly fitted life jacket.”
Children usually do not scream or call out for help when they are drowning. Parkland experts urge parents to practice water safety to prevent drowning by doing the following:
• Learn and teach children basic swimming and water safety skills. Formal swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning.
• Set up fencing or gates around pools so that they are fully enclosed.
• Always supervise children when near any body of water.
• Wear life jackets at all times near water if you don’t know how to swim and while on boats, kayaks and even boogie boards.
• Swim only while a lifeguard or dedicated water-watcher is on duty.
• Enroll in a CPR course.
Another favorite activity on long-weekends is grilling or relaxing near a bonfire. Whether you're flipping burgers, roasting hot dogs or toasting marshmallows for s’mores, it’s important to be mindful of fire safety as accidents can happen in a flash.
“Always maintain at least a 3-foot distance between the fire and anything flammable, including overhanging branches or nearby structures. Never leave a grill or fire pit unattended and be sure children and pets stay at least three feet away,” said Sarah Scoins, MSN, RN, CNS, CCRN, ACCNS-AG, CBRN, Parkland’s Burn Outreach and Injury Prevention Educator.
Scoins also reiterated the importance of avoiding the use of accelerants, such as gasoline, to start a fire because it can cause dangerous flare-ups. If drinking alcohol, do so responsibly and stay alert when around open flames. Use long-handled tools, wear protective gloves and keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby. Once you're done, make sure all embers are completely out before leaving the area.
“A few simple precautions can help everyone enjoy this long, fun-filled holiday weekend,” Scoins shared.
For more information about Parkland, visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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