With the July Fourth holiday weekend approaching, REMSA Health is urging residents and visitors to take simple precautions around fireworks, outdoor recreation and water activities to help prevent injuries.
The agency is reminding people that illegal and consumer-grade fireworks pose serious risks, including burns, eye injuries and wildfires. Fireworks burn at temperatures of about 1,200 degrees, hot enough to cause third-degree burns, and remain a leading cause of burns, eye injuries, and home fires in Nevada. REMSA Health encourages people to enjoy professional fireworks displays instead.
People spending time camping or enjoying other outdoor activities are also encouraged to be prepared by carrying essential first aid supplies and planning ahead before heading outdoors.
For those spending time on the water, REMSA Health recommends designating a water watcher and avoiding boating, ATV use, and other recreational activities while under the influence of alcohol.
REMSA Health says the Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest times of the year for emergency responders. REMSA Health typically responds to at least one fireworks-related injury call during the July Fourth holiday week. The agency also said alcohol related incidents on the water and roadways increase during the holiday weekend, while campers, ATV riders, and other outdoor recreation enthusiasts face greater risks when they are not properly prepared.
REMSA Health responds to tens of thousands of calls each year across Washoe County and is encouraging the community to plan ahead so the holiday weekend ends safely.
