As our communities gear up to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, cookouts, and outdoor gatherings, Dignity Health and Woodland Memorial Hospital are encouraging families to take simple, proactive steps to prevent injuries and accidents.

Along with the excitement of the holiday come risks from fireworks mishaps to barbecue burns and fire pit flare-ups that can lead to serious, often preventable, injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2023, there were eight reported deaths and an estimated 9,700 emergency department-treated injuries related to fireworks.

The highest injury rates were among teens ages 15 to 19, followed by children ages 5 to 9. Hands and fingers were the most commonly injured body parts (35%), followed by the head, face, and ears (22%). Approximately 42% of all fireworks-related injuries were burns.

Beyond fireworks, outdoor cooking and fire pit use also contribute to seasonal injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grill fires, with nearly 64% of U.S. households owning at least one outdoor grill. Gas leaks, unattended flames, and improper use are common causes of burn injuries.

“Around the Fourth of July, we see a noticeable increase in burn injuries from fireworks, grills, and fire pits—many of which are preventable,” said Gena Bravo, President and CEO of Woodland Memorial Hospital. “These activities are common holiday traditions, but they carry real risks when safety precautions aren’t followed. Even small sparks or brief contact with hot surfaces can cause serious injuries, especially to children.”

To stay safe this holiday, Dignity Health recommends the following tips:

Fireworks Safety

Attend public fireworks displays run by professionals.

Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.

Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of mishaps.

Light fireworks one at a time and maintain a safe distance.

Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.

BBQ and Grill Safety

Always grill outdoors, away from structures and overhanging branches.

Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.

Check gas grills for hose leaks before use.

Never leave the grill unattended while in use.

Clean the grill regularly to prevent grease fires.

Fire Pit Safety

Use fire pits in open areas, away from flammable materials.

Burn only dry, seasoned wood—never trash, plastics, or accelerants.

Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.

Fully extinguish the fire before leaving the area or going to bed.

Supervise children closely around open flames at all times.

It’s important to note that most fireworks are illegal in California. Only “Safe and Sane” fireworks—those that don’t fly into the air or explode—are allowed in select communities. Residents are urged to check local laws and prioritize public displays whenever possible.

By staying alert and following safety precautions, families can enjoy a safe and memorable Independence Day.