Skip to content

Ms. Senior America 2025: Making a Difference, One Pair of Socks at a Time

Search

Latest Stories

6 Simple Steps Women Can Take to Lower Heart Disease Risk—No Pills Needed
Editorial

6 Simple Steps Women Can Take to Lower Heart Disease Risk—No Pills Needed

Male Menopause: Fact or Fiction
Health Topics

Male Menopause: Fact or Fiction

Editorial

Fireworks, Hot Dogs, and No Trips to the ER: Your Ultimate 4th of July Safety Guide

Fireworks, Hot Dogs, and No Trips to the ER: Your Ultimate 4th of July Safety Guide
Photo by Anthony Roberts on Unsplash
Beth Frutkin
By Beth FrutkinJul 01, 2024
Beth Frutkin
See Full Bio

The 4th of July is a day of celebration, patriotism, and fun-filled activities, from barbecues and parades to fireworks and outdoor adventures. However, it's also a day that comes with potential risks. Following safety guidelines can ensure a memorable and safe holiday for everyone. Here are some essential safety tips for celebrating the 4th of July.

1. Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a quintessential part of 4th of July celebrations, but they can be dangerous if not handled properly. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), thousands of people are injured each year in fireworks-related incidents, with burns and injuries to the hands and face being the most common .

Tips:

  • Leave it to the Professionals: Attend public fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals rather than using consumer fireworks.
  • Follow Local Laws: Be aware of and follow all local laws regarding fireworks.
  • Keep a Safe Distance: If using fireworks at home, keep them away from people, houses, and flammable materials. Light them one at a time, and never relight a dud.
  • Supervise Children: Ensure that children do not handle fireworks and maintain close supervision at all times.

2. Grilling Safety

Barbecues are a staple of 4th of July festivities, but grilling can pose risks if safety precautions are not followed. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that July is the peak month for grill fires .

Tips:

  • Check Your Grill: Before using the grill, check for gas leaks and ensure it is clean and in good working order.
  • Grill Outdoors: Always grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area. Keep the grill away from the house, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
  • Supervise the Grill: Never leave the grill unattended while in use. Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
  • Use Proper Tools: Use long-handled tools to avoid burns, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.

3. Water Safety

Many people spend the 4th of July at pools, lakes, or the beach. Water activities can be fun but also dangerous without proper precautions. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of water safety to prevent drowning and other injuries .

Tips:

  • Swim in Designated Areas: Only swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
  • Watch Children Closely: Never leave children unattended near water. Ensure they wear appropriate flotation devices.
  • Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while swimming or supervising children in the water.
  • Know Your Limits: Be aware of your swimming abilities and avoid venturing too far from shore.

4. Sun and Heat Protection

Spending time outdoors on the 4th of July means exposure to the sun and heat, which can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide guidelines for protecting yourself from the sun and heat .

Tips:

  • Apply Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
  • Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade to cool down and protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure a fun and safe 4th of July celebration. Whether you’re enjoying fireworks, grilling, swimming, or simply spending time outdoors, taking precautions can help prevent accidents and injuries, allowing you to fully enjoy the holiday.

References

  1. National Safety Council. (2021). Fireworks Safety. Retrieved from NSC.org.
  2. National Fire Protection Association. (2020). Grill Fires. Retrieved from NFPA.org.
  3. American Red Cross. (2019). Water Safety Tips. Retrieved from RedCross.org.
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Sun Safety. Retrieved from CDC.gov.

Recent

Key December Health Awareness Days
Health Resources

Key December Health Awareness Days

Howl-idays Made Better: The Pawsitive Perks of Having Dogs
Health Topics

Howl-idays Made Better: The Pawsitive Perks of Having Dogs

Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?
Health Topics

Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?

Ms. Senior America 2025: Making a Difference, One Pair of Socks at a Time
Women

Ms. Senior America 2025: Making a Difference, One Pair of Socks at a Time

What is Movember?
Health Topics

What is Movember?

More Stories

Key December Health Awareness Days
Photo by John Price on Unsplash

Key December Health Awareness Days

As December begins, the holiday season brings festive preparations, family gatherings, and the joy of togetherness. Alongside the celebrations, December also highlights several important health awareness campaigns. From promoting proper handwashing and flu prevention to observing World AIDS Day and National Impaired Driving Awareness Month, this month focuses on both seasonal health concerns and broader wellness topics.


Keep ReadingShow less
keep reading December Health Awareness
Howl-idays Made Better: The Pawsitive Perks of Having Dogs

Howl-idays Made Better: The Pawsitive Perks of Having Dogs

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also bring stress, loneliness, or a sense of disconnection for some. I personally rely on my dogs for support and comfort when things get tough. They give me love and cuddles when I need them most. For dog owners, the presence of their furry companions offers numerous physical, emotional, and social benefits that enhance the holiday experience.

1. Emotional Support and Stress Relief

Holidays can be hectic, with shopping, cooking, and hosting often creating a whirlwind of activity. Dogs have a proven ability to reduce stress and anxiety, thanks to their calming presence. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that interacting with dogs significantly lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and increases oxytocin, known as the "love hormone" that promotes feelings of happiness and connection .

Keep ReadingShow less
keep reading Dogs during the holidays
Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?
Photo by Hiki App on Unsplash

Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?

In recent decades, there has been a striking increase in diagnoses of neurodevelopmental conditions like autism, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We see more organizations to address these issues. We heard about it more in the news. People have theories about this being caused by the things we eat or, on the other side, that we are better at diagnosing diseases. This surge has sparked debates and curiosity: Are these conditions becoming more common, or is our understanding of the brain simply evolving? The answer, as it turns out, is a mix of both.

The Numbers at a Glance

  • Autism diagnoses in the United States have increased from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 36 in 2023, according to the CDC.
  • ADHD diagnoses among children rose from 6.1% in 1997 to 10.2% in 2016, per the National Survey of Children's Health.
  • Similar trends have been observed for other conditions like ADD, dyslexia, and even sensory processing disorders.

This rise may seem alarming, but it's essential to examine the factors driving these numbers.

Keep ReadingShow less
keep reading Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?
What is Movember?
Photo by Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash

What is Movember?

Every November we hear about "Movember." So, what is it? Movember, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique health challenges men face. While men tend to be less likely to visit doctors regularly or discuss their health concerns openly, they are also more vulnerable to certain health conditions than women. This discrepancy in health outcomes is not just due to genetics; behavioral factors, societal norms, and access to healthcare play significant roles in why men are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses and preventable diseases. Understanding these factors and making proactive changes can help improve men’s health outcomes.

Why Are Men More Likely to Get Sick?

  1. Higher Risk of Chronic Diseases Men are more likely to develop certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S., responsible for nearly one in four deaths. Men are also at a higher risk for conditions like prostate cancer, lung cancer, and liver disease【1】.Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including biological differences in how men and women process fat, hormones, and stress. For instance, testosterone in men has been linked to higher cholesterol levels, which increase the risk of heart disease【2】.
  2. Poor Health Habits Men are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are more likely to drink alcohol in excess and smoke cigarettes compared to women, both of which contribute to a higher risk of conditions like lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and liver damage【3】.Additionally, men are less likely to engage in preventative care practices such as regular physical exams, screenings, and vaccinations. Studies show that men are significantly less likely to visit a healthcare provider for routine check-ups, which can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes【4】.
  3. Mental Health Stigma Mental health is another area where men are more likely to struggle in silence. Societal norms often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help for emotional distress. As a result, men are more likely to experience mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse without seeking the necessary help. Suicide rates are higher in men, with men accounting for about 75% of all suicide deaths in the U.S【5】. The stigma surrounding mental health in men has contributed to these outcomes, preventing many from getting the support they need.
  4. Genetics and Biology Biological factors also contribute to differences in health outcomes between men and women. For instance, men are more prone to certain types of cancers, such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Genetics can also play a role in male-specific conditions like male pattern baldness and erectile dysfunction, which can affect overall well-being and quality of life【6】.

What Can Men Do to Improve Their Health?

Despite these challenges, men’s health can significantly improve with proactive care and lifestyle changes. Here are some ways men can take charge of their health:

Keep ReadingShow less
keep reading What is Movember
Pancreatic Cancer: The Legacy of Patrick Swayze and the Fight for Better Treatments
commons.wikimedia.org

Pancreatic Cancer: The Legacy of Patrick Swayze and the Fight for Better Treatments

What 80's kid didn't love Patrick Swayze? Johnny Castle, Bohdi, James Dalton, Vida Boheme, and pancreatic cancer patient. Less than two years after he was diagnosed, Patrick Swayze died. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and challenging cancers to diagnose and treat, earning a reputation as one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Despite accounting for only about 3% of all cancers in the U.S., it ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Its high mortality rate makes it crucial to understand the factors behind its severity and the advancements being made to combat it 【1】【2】.

Why Is Pancreatic Cancer So Deadly?

  1. Late Diagnosis
    Pancreatic cancer is often referred to as a "silent killer" because symptoms usually appear only in advanced stages. Common signs, such as abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss, often overlap with other conditions, delaying diagnosis. By the time pancreatic cancer is detected, it has often spread to other organs, making treatment more difficult 【2】【3】.
  2. Aggressive Nature
    Pancreatic tumors are highly invasive and have a unique ability to metastasize quickly. The cancer often spreads to the liver, lungs, or surrounding blood vessels, further limiting treatment options 【3】.
  3. Resistance to Treatment
    Unlike some cancers that respond well to chemotherapy or radiation, pancreatic cancer is often resistant to these therapies. Its dense tissue environment, called the tumor microenvironment, acts as a barrier, protecting cancer cells from treatment 【4】.
  4. Genetic Complexity
    Pancreatic cancer exhibits numerous genetic mutations, which complicates the development of targeted therapies. This genetic diversity makes it challenging to identify universal treatment strategies 【5】.
  5. Low Survival Rates
    The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is just 12%, one of the lowest among major cancers. However, early detection can significantly improve outcomes, with localized cases having a five-year survival rate of around 44% 【1】.

What Is Being Done to Improve Treatment?

Despite its challenges, significant progress is being made in pancreatic cancer research and treatment:

Keep ReadingShow less
keep reading Pancreatic Cancer: The Legacy of Patrick Swayze and the Fight for Better Treatments
×