The Fourth of July is often celebrated with fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings.
According to HealthDay, these traditions also bring a higher risk of burn injuries, especially for children.
Experts say families should think about safety before the celebrations begin.
The American Red Cross also recommends taking extra care around fire and heat during holiday events.
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Hidden dangers
Some common holiday items can be more dangerous than they appear.
Johns Hopkins Medicine explains according to HealthDay that sparklers can become hotter than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because of this, young children should never hold them, while older children should only use them with close adult supervision.
Grills, fire pits, and tabletop fire pits can stay hot for a long time after the flames are gone.
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Experts recommend keeping children at least three feet away from these areas and cooling hot embers with water before leaving them unattended.
If someone is burned, the injured area should be cooled with running water for about 20 minutes.
Medical care is recommended for burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or large parts of the body.
A safer choice
Consumer fireworks are one of the main causes of serious injuries to the hands, face, and eyes during the holiday, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
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For that reason, experts recommend watching a public fireworks display instead of using fireworks at home.
The main message is that most burn injuries in children can be prevented.
Taking a few simple precautions before the celebration can help families enjoy the holiday more safely.
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