As Memorial Day weekend, widely regarded as the unofficial start of summer, approaches, experts at Parkland Health are urging the community to prioritize safety and be aware of the dangers of drowning and accidental burns. With many families planning outdoor activities near water or around bonfires, vigilance is key to a safe holiday.
Last year, Texas Game Wardens reported an increase in drownings during the Memorial Day weekend. Drowning remains a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“Water safety always starts with close supervision, especially for families with young children,” emphasized Courtney Edwards, DNP, MPH, RN, CCRN, CEN, TCRN, NEA-BC, Director of Trauma Community Outreach in Parkland Memorial Hospital’s Rees-Jones Trauma Center. “Whether you’re at the pool, the lake, or on a boat, make sure everyone wears a properly fitted life jacket.”
Parkland experts highlight that children often do not scream or call for help when drowning and advise parents to implement the following water safety practices:
- Learn and teach children basic swimming and water safety skills, noting that formal swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning.
- Ensure pools are fully enclosed with fencing or gates.
- Always supervise children closely when they are near any body of water.
- Wear properly fitted life jackets at all times near water if swimming ability is limited, and while on boats, kayaks, and even boogie boards.
- Swim only when a lifeguard or a designated "water-watcher" is on duty.
- Enroll in a CPR course.
Grilling and bonfires are also popular activities for long weekends, and Parkland experts stress the importance of fire safety.
“Always maintain at least a 3-foot distance between the fire and anything flammable, including overhanging branches or nearby structures. Never leave a grill or fire pit unattended and be sure children and pets stay at least three feet away,” advised Sarah Scoins, MSN, RN, CNS, CCRN, ACCNS-AG, CBRN, Parkland’s Burn Outreach and Injury Prevention Educator.
Scoins further reiterated the importance of avoiding accelerants like gasoline to start fires due to the risk of dangerous flare-ups. She also urged responsible alcohol consumption around open flames, and the use of long-handled tools and protective gloves. Keeping a fire extinguisher or water source nearby is also crucial. After use, ensure all embers are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
“A few simple precautions can help everyone enjoy this long, fun-filled holiday weekend,” Scoins concluded.
