Fourth of July Safety Tips for Seniors in Peoria
Fourth of July is one of the greatest, most patriotic holidays we have in the United States. As much as we love enthusiasm, missing out on Fourth of July safety tips can add some unwelcome risk and danger to your holiday! According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 9,000 people are injured in fireworks-related incidents each year.
Peoria's summers are ideal for your Fourth of July celebration. Whether you're in the Rose Capital as a long-time Arizonian watching fireworks over the desert sky or visiting a loved one, there are few places better suited to the holiday.
If you're interested in holiday safety and summer precautions, we're here to help. Read on for a quick overview of some senior wellness tips to make sure your Fourth of July is spent celebrating instead of recovering.
Holiday Wellness Tips
Fourth of July safety tips don't just focus on firework safety for older adults! It's vital to understand what other risks there are.
Arizona is one of the hottest states, and the summer heat poses a danger well beyond the usual celebratory risks. Here are two of the most important things to keep in mind when focusing on holiday safety.
Defeating the Heat
Many people who aren't used to the heat underestimate how much of a threat it can pose. Heat exhaustion, heat sickness, and other such heat-related illnesses are extreme threats to anyone, especially the elderly.
Heat exhaustion is one of the three major heat conditions. According to the Cleveland Clinic, heat exhaustion takes place when you exert yourself while also dealing with high heat. During the summer, this is all too common.
Another important note is that heat exhaustion is only one step to the condition. Heat exhaustion can easily become heat stroke, which is a life-threatening situation for all ages. Do your best to avoid such issues by:
- Celebrating in the shade
- Managing your fluid intake
- Avoiding direct sunlight
- Taking breaks from the outdoors
Staying Hydrated
One crucial way to manage your heat is to stay hydrated. Dehydration can be exceptionally dangerous for anyone, but particularly the elderly.
According to the National Library of Medicine, dehydration can significantly increase the fall risk in adults. A collapse or a fall from dehydration can be a hospital visit, so make sure you're handling your hydration.
Another important note is to manage your alcohol intake. We all love having a few drinks around the holidays, but do so responsibly! Alcohol can cause further dehydration.
Firework Safety in Peoria, AZ
Now that we know more about summer safety, we can consider firework safety. Here are some of the most important things to consider.
Lighting the Fuse
Being close to fireworks is necessary to light them, but how do you do so safely? After all, it's putting you in the most dangerous spot!
One good workaround is to use what's called a punk. A punk is a long, incense-like stick that you light to hold an ember. You can then use this to more safely light fireworks.
Some seniors also like to use long grill lighters. These are great for adding some distance while also letting you light quickly. If you have arthritis, they're also much easier to use!
Managing Mobility
Mobility is another challenge to keep in mind. According to the Census, mobility issues are the most common disability for seniors in America.
Getting away from fireworks quickly is paramount. You've just lit the fuse, so how can you get away quickly if you're facing mobility challenges?
With this challenge, it's important to understand what to avoid. Some things that pose the greatest threat are:
- High-explosive fireworks
- Firecrackers and other quick-fused explosives
- Large shower-type fireworks
Light from a distance, when possible. There's no need to add unnecessary risk!
Spectacle Instead of Risk
When you're talking pyrotechnics, it's difficult to remove all risk from the situation. You're dealing with explosives at the end of the day, so there's always going to be something dangerous.
A crucial Fourth of July safety tip is to focus on the spectacle instead of adding risk. Using high-explosive fireworks like mortars or dangerous ones like firecrackers is only adding to the risk. Look for gentler, quieter, more colorful fireworks that aren't quite as dangerous.
A great way to enjoy your holiday is to engage in some of the local Peoria events instead of holding your own. Holiday safety is much easier when others have already taken all the firework precautions!
At Vista del Rio, we know that safety is the most important part of any event. Our activities focus on keeping our community members safe while also highlighting engagement. Browse our activities and events to see what you can enjoy today!
Hand Off the Lighting Responsibilities
Punks and long lighters are helpful, but lighting fireworks will always be the most dangerous. Why insist on being the one to do the lighting?
For those of us battling mobility issues, this is particularly challenging. Bending over to light fireworks can present pain or a fall risk, for example. Even carrying the fireworks can be more strain than some of us are seeking.
Many military veterans also feel uncomfortable when dealing with fireworks. At Vista del Rio, we're proud to put our veterans first with our veteran-focused programs. Browse our veteran benefits today to see how we're honoring the proud veterans of our nation this July 4th.
Mastering Fourth of July Safety Tips
Taking the right Fourth of July safety tips to heart will help you focus on the celebration instead of recovery this Independence Day. Make sure you're battling the heat by managing your body's temperature and staying hydrated during the festivities. When it comes to fireworks, focus on safety, avoid highly explosive fireworks, and let others handle the lighting so you can enjoy them from a safe distance.
At Vista del Rio, we're proud to offer countless ways to give you control over your day. Our community offers pet-friendly lodging, three chef-prepared meals a day, and proximity to some of Arizona's most beautiful scenery. Contact us today to see how we can help you reclaim your independence.