While it may be tempting to handle fireworks on the Fourth of July, researchers & doctors say the injuries can be life-altering. More than 3,000 children under the age of 15 are sent to the ER each year because of fireworks. Research from Harborview Medical Center found that injuries from mortars & shells tend to be more severe than injuries from other fireworks & at times would result in amputations & permanent blindness. Among teens, injuries from homemade fireworks or modified fireworks, such as sparkler bombs, are more common.
To avoid injury by fireworks, follow these helpful Safety Tips:
Think twice BEFORE you use fireworks >> Watch this video
Open windows help take advantage of nice weather, but they also pose a fall risk for young children. According to Chief of Pediatrics and HIPRC associate member, Brian Johnston, M.D., “Harborview Medical Center sees about 40 to 50 children per year injured by window falls”.
Window screens are designed to keep bugs out, but are NOT strong enough to keep children in.
Helpful safety tips include:
Learn more about how to prevent window falls >> VIEW OUR RESOURCE GUIDE & VIDEO
Resource Guide & VideoThe Washington State Drowning Prevention Network (DPN) encourages people of all ages to learn about the layers of Water Safety & Drowning Prevention & to share vital information & resources with their families, friends & networks.
Experts say that life jackets should be worn at all times—not just available—as there may not be enough time to grab them during an emergency. On every life jacket, remember to check that it is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, fits properly & does NOT show any damage.
LEARN MORE about Drowning Prevention & Water Safety at Seattle Childrens & Safe Kids Worldwide.
Drowning Prevention ResourcesAs cyclists take to sunny streets, remember to suit up with a properly fitted helmet. Helmets play a significant role in protecting cyclists from head/brain injuries & the law requires them to be worn while biking in Seattle.
LEARN MORE about these FREE bike helmet fittings & giveaways for yourself and your family!
Bicycle Safety ResourcesCampfires are our nation’s leading cause of children’s camping injuries & primary catalyst for damaging forest fires.
LEARN MORE about Campfire Safety & First Aid tips from injury prevention experts.
Campfire Safety & First Aid
Being TOO HOT for TOO LONG can become problematic at any age—too much heat is not safe for anyone!
It is even riskier if you are older and/or have health problems. It is important to get relief from the heat quickly. If not, you might begin to feel confused or faint. Your heart could become stressed & stop beating.
To keep heat-related illnesses from becoming a dangerous heat stroke, remember to:
Older adults may be more likely to have heat-related health problems. Being hot for too long can cause hyperthermia — a heat-related illness. Share this infographic to help spread the word about staying safe in hot weather.
LEARN MORE about conditions heat can cause & what to do in case of a medical emergency.
Hot Weather Safety for All Ages
Heading out on a road trip, or just running out for a quick errand? Make sure all passengers are in the right restraint system to keep them safe during every ride.
For kids under height 4’9″, usually around age 8-12, that means they should be in a car seat or booster seat. Older children, teens & adults should all wear seat belts, which helps set an example. These aren’t just good ideas—they’re the law in Washington state.
LEARN MORE at Boosterseat.org.
Learn more about Booster Seats