Summer Safety in the Spotlight

Summer in Middle Tennessee means families are spending weekends at the lake, grilling with friends, and enjoying the sights and sounds from Clarksville in the north to Spring Hill in the south and everywhere in between.

While summer brings about vacations and sunny days, it is also one of the busiest times of year for injury-related emergency care nationwide. In fact, more than 45,000 people visit emergency departments on July 4th and 5th alone.

As residents spend more time outdoors, heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and water-related injuries will inevitably increase. The good news is that many incidents can be prevented as long as parents and caregivers remain conscious of summer safety tips. But when something does go wrong, Middle Tennessee’s first responders, hospitals and providers are standing by to intervene in an emergency and provide world class care. 

Keep a Safe Distance from Fireworks

The Fourth of July may be behind us, but fireworks remain a memorable, although risky, part of celebrations throughout the remainder of the summer and fall for many. Last year alone, more than 14,000 people were treated for fireworks and sparkler injuries, with burns to the hands and face among the most common injuries. When possible, leave fireworks to the professionals. But if your friends and family insist on a homemade display, keep your distance. The safest distance from ground-based fireworks is 35 feet, at minimum.  

If an injury happens, burns to the hands, eyes, and face should always be evaluated at a local hospital as well as respiratory symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

Escape the Heat

Middle Tennessee has already seen two heat waves this summer, and they won’t be the last. Staying hydrated and limiting time outdoors during peak heat are the simplest and most effective ways to prevent heat-related illness. That said, heat stroke and exhaustion can hit quickly, especially for seniors and young children. If a family member or friend is experiencing dizziness, heavy sweating, confusion, shallow breathing, or a loss of consciousness, call on Tennessee’s first responders or take them to the nearest hospital for care. 

Enjoy the Water Safely

Drowning remains a leading cause of death for children ages one to four, and an average of 11 people die from unintentional drowning every day in the United States. Enjoying the water in groups and staying vigilant near pools and lakes can be lifesaving, especially for children. Similarly, water and vehicle safety go hand-in-hand: wear life jackets while boating, buckle your seat belt on every trip, and never operate a boat while impaired.

Middle Tennessee is preparing to keep everyone safe for the summer season, but residents – especially parents and caregivers— must also do their part. Whether someone is experiencing heat exhaustion after a day outside or dealing with a boating injury on Old Hickory Lake, keep an eye out for signs that they may need medical attention. And remember that first responders and hospitals are equipped to provide timely, expert care close to home. 

Summer should be a season for making memories, not unexpected trips to the emergency room. By taking a few extra precautions and knowing that trusted care is always nearby, families can enjoy the rest of the summer season with confidence.

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