SHREVEPORT, La. — Emergency room physicians at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport are preparing for one of the busiest weekends of the year, warning that the Fourth of July holiday typically brings a sharp increase in preventable injuries.
Dr. Jacqueline Bowers, director of emergency services at Ochsner LSU Health North Louisiana, said the hospital expects to treat more patients with injuries related to fireworks, traffic crashes, boating accidents, ATV wrecks, heat illness and alcohol use.
"Fourth of July is always a favorite holiday for all of us because it brings our family and friends together to celebrate," Bowers said. "But unfortunately, when we don't prepare ahead of time, that can mean a visit to the ER."
As northwest Louisiana's Level I trauma center, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport is increasing its readiness by ensuring adequate staffing and maintaining supplies needed to treat trauma patients. Bowers said the hospital is preparing everything from burn supplies and blood products to operating room availability for patients who may need emergency surgery.
"We know statistically we are going to have an increase in all of these injuries," she said.
Fireworks remain one of the biggest concerns every Independence Day, according to Bowers. She said professional fireworks displays are the safest option and urged families to use extreme caution if setting off fireworks at home.
Even sparklers, often viewed as harmless, can reach temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and cause severe burns, she said. Improperly handled fireworks can also lead to devastating injuries, including amputations.
Bowers encouraged families to keep children away from fireworks, never lean over a firework while lighting it, keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby and avoid mixing fireworks with alcohol.
She also emphasized water safety, noting that boating and swimming accidents increase during the holiday weekend. Anyone operating a boat should remain sober, she said, and everyone should wear a life jacket.
Planning ahead can significantly reduce the risk of injury, Bowers said. She recommends designating drivers and boat operators before celebrations begin, assigning adults to supervise children around pools and fireworks, and staying hydrated while spending time outdoors in the summer heat.
If an emergency does occur, Bowers said the first priority is calling 911.
"The most important thing is to make sure you have access to a phone to contact 911," she said.
While waiting for first responders to arrive, bystanders can help by applying pressure to severe bleeding, using a tourniquet when appropriate or performing CPR if they are trained, she said.
"Our goal is for everyone to celebrate safely and not need to come see us," Bowers said.
Originally published on ktbs.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.
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