/24-7PressRelease/ - ADDISON, TX, June 29, 2008 - Concentra, a leader in the delivery of health care solutions, is providing important health tips to keep Americans safe and healthy this summer season. Independence Day is a time for family, friends, food, and fireworks - and with a few precautions it can be a fun time without any injuries.
The Fourth of July is a time when friends and family gather together to celebrate the birth of our great nation, with fireworks festivities. But without the right precautions, it can lead to serious injuries. In 2005, an estimated 10,800 people were seriously hurt because of improper use of fireworks, with 45 percent of injuries sustained by children . To help you get the most out of this Independence Day, Concentra is providing some simple and easy fireworks safety tips to avoid serious injury.
"If you are going to use fireworks, make sure to purchase only legal fireworks from licensed distributors," says Amy J. Khan, M.D., M.P.H., Concentra's National Director for Wellness TotalCare. "Only adults should operate fireworks, lighting them one at a time. And never try to relight defective or malfunctioning fireworks."
Dr. Khan urges additional safety measures when using fireworks during the summer. "A bucket of water and hose should always be nearby when using fireworks, ready to put out any fires," she says. "Because of the dry air and typically dry grass, many small fires can occur from the use of fireworks." An estimated 2,200 reported structure or vehicle fires were started by fireworks in 2004. These fires resulted in $21 million in direct property damage .
Dr. Khan also advises adults igniting firework displays to keep an arm's distance. "You should also pull your hair back or wear a cap, to prevent against accidentally setting your hair or clothing on fire," she added. If you do suffer a minor burn from fireworks, Dr. Khan recommends these three steps:
1. Cool the burn immediately with cool water
2. Remove any clothing or jewelry that may constrict or irritate the burn area
3. Keep the wound clean, using an antibiotic ointment and monitor for signs of infection
While the bright lights and loud sounds can be very intriguing, Dr. Khan suggests the safest way to prevent firework-related injuries is to "leave fireworks displays to the trained professionals." Most communities offer a fireworks celebration during the July Fourth holiday, making for a fun, safe, and enjoyable nighttime display.
Despite the best laid plans, accidents or illnesses are sometimes unavoidable, even on vacation. Concentra delivers treatment for a wide range of minor injuries and illnesses, including minor burns, seasonal allergies, sprained tendons, insect bites, and many other conditions that are common throughout the summer season and beyond. With more than 320 national locations, many with weekend and extended evening hours, Concentra delivers the care you need, when you need it most.
To see the entire list of summer health tips, the numerous conditions Concentra Medical Centers treat, or to find a location near you, visit http://www.Concentra.com.
About Concentra
Concentra is a leading health care company focused on improving America's health, one patient at a time. Through its affiliated clinicians, the company provides occupational medicine, urgent care, physical therapy, and wellness services to workers and the general public from 324 medical centers in 40 states. In addition to these medical center locations, Concentra serves employers by providing a broad range of health advisory services and operating 275 on-site medical facilities. Through this complement of services, Concentra intends to raise the standard of health by putting individuals first, treating them with clinical excellence, and focusing on their ongoing wellness.
http://www.Concentra.com | http://www.ConcentraUrgentCare.com
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