ER doctor gives advice on avoiding 4th of July dangers

This Fourth of July marks America’s 243rd birthday and the most popular day for grilling in the U.S. But with backyard BBQs and celebrations come several health hazards to beware. The highest number of home fires reported during July and August are caused by grills or are BBQ-related. ERs report a huge increase in burns thanks to the grilling season and nearly 70 percent of injuries reported are related to fireworks during the Fourth of July season. (Source: Wallethub and National Fire Protection Assoc.) The emergency physicians at North Central Baptist Hospital’s Adult and Pediatric ER are experts in treating a wide array of emergencies around the clock, including during the Fourth of July and summer season. Thomas Gowan, MD, pediatric emergency room physician with North Central Baptist Hospital reminds parents to keep children away from grills, fire pits and fireworks to avoid burns and eye and hand injuries. Dr. Gowan says parents need to remember to keep their children hydrated with plenty of water during hot afternoons and evenings and to follow safe food preparation habits to avoid food poisoning.