As we get ready to celebrate Independence Day, Centra Care physicians urge you to take caution around grills, campfires and fireworks this holiday weekend.

Centra Care averages about 12 burns a week year-round. But, data from the past three years shows that during the week of July 4th the average increased to 25 burns per week. This number excludes sunburns.

Before attending medical school, Centra Care Medical Director, Timothy Hendrix, MD was a firefighter. “Most burns that we see this time of year at Centra Care are from consumer fireworks. Since these fireworks are legally sold throughout our community, people get a false sense of security, and really don’t understand the risks. The best advice I have is to leave it to the professionals and enjoy one of the many fireworks displays around town,” says Dr. Hendrix.

Other burns that Centra Care doctors see during the July 4th Holiday:

• Burns from Gas Grills
• Leg burns from motorcycle exhaust pipes
• Burns to eyes from fireworks embers

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Most burns can be prevented. Below are some tips on how to play it safe when dealing with fire.

Safety Tips to Prevent Burns

If you can’t convince your loved ones to not use consumer fireworks, then:

• Don’t allow children to use consumer fireworks (sparklers burn at 1200 degrees)
• Keep a fire extinguisher close at hand
• Handle unexploded fireworks with care, they may still be active
• Keep a bucket of water available to extinguish unexploded fireworks
• Wear eye protection when igniting fireworks

Also:

• Inspect gas grills for cracks or damage to fittings and hoses prior to use
• Do not leave any open flames (grills, barbecues, or patio fireplaces) unattended by an adult
• Place grills a safe distance from where children are playing or your guests are gathering

Unless it covers a large area, most minor burns (those affecting only the outer layer of skin) can be treated at home.

• Run under cool water for 5-10 minutes
• Do not use ice
• Cover area with dry, sterile, gauze
• Take over-the-counter medication to relieve pain

For more severe burns you should seek medical treatment immediately.

Have a safe and happy holiday. For your convenience the following Centra Care centers will remain open on July 4th: Clermont, Lake Buena Vista, Lee Road and Waterford Lakes.

If you need to see a doctor, Centra Care’s No Wait, Online Reservations allows you to secure a time at any of our locations that fits with your schedule. Now if you are sick or injured, you can schedule to see a doctor during your lunch break, after work, on the weekend, or whenever is convenient for you. For more information visit: www.CentraCare.org

Sincerely,


Florida Hospital Centra Care
407-200-CARE (2273)
To learn more about "What's Going Around" in our community you can listen to the Centra Care Senior Medical Director each Tuesday morning between 8am and 8:30am on 88.3FM radio - Z88.3