Fourth of July Safety Tips for Seniors in Victoria, TX
Every Texan loves spending their Fourth of July with their loved ones and a sky full of fireworks. But did you know that there are about 10,000 fireworks-related injuries every year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission? What Fourth of July safety tips can keep you safe this Independence Day?
Victoria is one of the hidden jewels of Texas that you'll love spending your Independence Day in. Whether you're here for the zoo, the museums, or the local history, there's something for every patriot!
If you're curious about holiday safety for seniors and what sort of memory care precautions to take, we're here to help. Read on for a quick overview of Fourth of July safety tips.
Fourth of July Safety Tips: Firework Safety and You
Fireworks are the first thing most of us think of when the Fourth of July comes up. Victoria is always especially happy to celebrate with a sky full of fireworks.
Unfortunately, fireworks are also the biggest threat to safety for many of us. Here are some of the most important tips for senior-friendly celebrations.
Legal Fireworks in Victoria, TX
One of the first things to look into is whether fireworks are allowed in your part of Texas. Fireworks are illegal to set off within the city limits.
However, the unincorporated areas of Victoria are fair game for you and your family's celebration. If you own private property, safely using fireworks is legal. You can also use fireworks if you have written permission from the owner of the land you're on.
Fireworks and Mobility
Mobility challenges are common with age. A study from the Census claims that there are nearly 11 million seniors dealing with difficulties climbing or walking.
These mobility challenges are always difficult, but with fireworks, they become downright dangerous. It's also crucial that you look into what fireworks are legal in your area.
Anything that can create a dangerous explosion is something to avoid. These fireworks can be fun, but they also pose the greatest threats.
Leave the Lighting to Others
Lighting fireworks is fun, but it's also the greatest area of danger. We recommend allowing others to be the ones who focus on lighting fireworks for you.
Lighting fireworks may not feel like much of a risk, but it puts you in a situation where you need to get away quickly. If you have mobility challenges, running away from a burning fuse is significantly more dangerous. That's also the case for anyone who has issues balancing or bending.
Children are sometimes eager to involve themselves with fireworks, and the sparkle of the pyrotechnics often intrigues them. We do not recommend letting children light fireworks, even when you feel that safety precautions have been taken.
Instead, it's best to designate someone able-bodied who can light the fireworks safely and easily.
We also recommend attending fireworks shows by others. These cut down on the cost to you, both financially and with physical effort. If you do so, ensure that you follow a set of summer safety reminders to avoid getting lost in a crowd.
Summer Safety and Heat
What else is important when it comes to holiday safety for seniors? Here are some Fourth of July safety tips that focus more on staying safe in the heat than dealing with fireworks.
Handling Crowds
A crucial step is to make sure that you and your loved ones are prepared to handle crowds. Events can quickly become disorienting in the summer heat, especially for nighttime events.
Many seniors are more comfortable when wearing ear protection. Fireworks can get dangerously loud, and ear protection will help to reduce any damage or discomfort. They can also help dull the loud din of the crowd, which some may find disorienting.
Ensure that your party knows where to meet up and that nobody is walking alone. Always take note of any exits that may become necessary if an emergency occurs.
Safety in the Sun
Did you know that seniors are more vulnerable to ultraviolet light than younger individuals? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, this is because they've withstood more cumulative UV damage in their longer lives.
Staying safe from the sun is vital, but also easy. We recommend:
- Wearing lightweight clothes that keep the sun off
- Wearing and frequently reapplying high-SPF sunscreen
- Staying indoors or in the shade whenever possible
- Wearing large sun-blocking hats that keep your neck, face, and scalp safe
Beating the Heat
According to a study conducted by Harvard, 12,000 people in the United States die of heat-related causes annually. Roughly 4 in every 5 of these individuals are seniors, or about 80%.
With the heat proving to be such a threat, defending against it is just as important as firework safety. Conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can quickly become life-threatening on their own.
Managing the heat is one of the most important steps. Some ways to do so include:
- Find the shade to avoid direct sunlight
- Attend nighttime festivities
- Bring cold towels, water, etc., to keep your body temperature down
Staying Hydrated
Hydration is also something you'll need to focus on. According to the Cleveland Clinic, older adults are more at risk of dehydration than younger individuals.
Dehydration can lead to more dangerous symptoms, such as dizziness and difficulty standing. Seniors may struggle more than most with dehydration, as it can worsen existing symptoms from other conditions.
Holding Safe Celebrations for Seniors
The right Fourth of July safety tips are important to ensure you can enjoy your holiday without any unfortunate accidents. Focus on hydration and the danger of overheating first, as these are some of the most dangerous risks. Once the weather is handled, focus on firework safety and ensure that all events are being handled safely.
At Morada Victoria, we know how important it is to celebrate your freedom and independence. Our focus is on providing you with fresh cuisine, enriching recreational and social events, and the ability to enjoy the beautiful Texan coastal plains. Contact us today to see how we can help your golden years shine.