4th of July Safety Tips

The 4th of July in Las Vegas is a lot of fun, but it does come with some safety concerns that need to be dealt with until well after the party’s over. As revelers roll into town to celebrate the holiday, it is important to take extra precautions to avoid the most common causes of injury and death over the holiday. This year, it is also advisable to take precautions against the unseen threat of a global pandemic that is spreading through the region at a rapid clip.

Fireworks/Fire Safety

The US has a fireworks injury rate of 5.2 per 100,000 people. Most of these injuries happen over the Independence Day holiday. Staying safe while using fireworks requires vigilance and adherence to some very basic safety precautions, including:

  • Never consume alcohol or cannabis products prior to or while using fireworks.
  • Never use fireworks indoors.
  • Secure dogs and cats within a small interior room. It is also a good idea to place a television or radio within the room to help drown out the sound of exploding fireworks.
  • Always supervise children while using sparklers, smoke bombs, etc.
  • Always have buckets of water, fire extinguishers, and First Aid kits ready for use.
  • Always soak spent and “dud” fireworks before discarding in the trash.
  • Keep children and pets far away from grills, fire pits, etc.

Boating/Swimming Safety

Many area residents will head to the swimming pool and out to Lake Mead for the 4th of July holidays. While splishing and splashing away the day in the water is a great way to relax, it is vital to be careful when swimming, boating, and enjoying water sports.

  • Splish, splash, but don’t get sloshed. Alcohol use while swimming or boating is a dangerous mix.
  • Pay attention to the weather. Summer lightning storms can create a deadly risk of electrocution on the water. If the weather starts to turn, head into the dock or clubhouse until the weather improves.
  • Always wear a life jacket while boating. Ensure that children are carefully supervised at all times while out on the water. 
  • Steer clear of rip currents and debris in the water.
  • Adhere to all boating regulations and harbor rules. 
  • Stay hydrated. This 4th of July the temperature is expected to climb above 106°. At that temperature, dehydration is a threat everyone in Las Vegas needs to protect themselves against.
  • Wear sunscreen. A few hours in the sun may not seem very dangerous, but under the blistering and unforgiving heat of the desert sun, there is a real risk of 2nd and 3rd degree burns that can land residents in the hospital. Remember to reapply sunscreen as specified on the container. 

Driving Safety

Motor vehicle accidents rise in the days leading up to the Independence Day holiday. It is always advisable to exercise extra caution 2-3 days before the holiday arrives, and 1-2 days afterwards. 

  • Don’t drink and drive. Las Vegas has one of the highest rates of DUI in the country and it goes up over the 4th of July holiday. Don’t become the next statistic.
  • Don’t speed. It is better to be late to the party than to never arrive.
  • Pay attention to the road. Stay off the phone, don’t text and drive, and avoid flipping through radio dials and adjusting temperature controls. Focus on the road and nothing more.
  • Don’t overload the vehicle. Whether transporting pets, children, family, friends, or gear for the party, make sure that everyone has a seatbelt and that all cargo is properly stored. Always ensure that the driver has a clear field of vision around the vehicle.
  • Inspect the car before the trip. Make sure that tires are properly inflated, fluids are filled up, and all vehicle systems are fully functional. This applies to everything from trips to the store, all the way up to road trips across the country.

COVID-19

The US has a daily infection rate that is currently at 30,000+ per day and rising. Avoid the delusion that the pandemic is over; it’s not. COVID-19 is a very real, very dangerous threat that all revelers should protect themselves against. 

  • Avoid crowds. Social distancing rules apply at all public areas and private businesses. Keep six feet of distance at all times.
  • Wear masks. Countries that implemented strict mask requirements all have lower infection rates than the US. The fact is that properly wearing masks significantly reduces transmission rates. 
  • Wash hands regularly. Use soap and water before eating, and plan to wash hands at every opportunity.
  • Sanitize. Carry hand sanitizer and apply this before handling food, beverage containers, etc.

Finally, the memories of the RT 91 Music Festival are still very fresh. Many Las Vegas residents have diagnosed PTSD symptoms. Be mindful of this. Moreover, stay alert for anything that looks suspicious and for any suspicious activity. Don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement to report potentially dangerous individuals or situations.    

author-bio-image author-bio-image
Joseph J. Wirth

Joseph J. Wirth is the founding senior partner of Mainor Wirth Injury Lawyers in Las Vegas, Nevada. Representing injured victims throughout the state, Joe has recovered millions on behalf of his clients and has earned his reputation as a highly-respected member of the legal community.

Years of Experience: More than 15 years
Nevada Registration Status Active

Bar Admissions: State Bar of Nevada Lawyer Advertising Advisory Committee, Member 2008-Present Nevada Justice Association, Associate Member 2007-Present Nevada State Bar, Associate Member 2006-Present American Association for Justice, Associate Member 2006-Present

author-bio-image author-bio-image
Joseph J. Wirth

Joseph J. Wirth is the founding senior partner of Mainor Wirth Injury Lawyers in Las Vegas, Nevada. Representing injured victims throughout the state, Joe has recovered millions on behalf of his clients and has earned his reputation as a highly-respected member of the legal community.

Years of Experience: More than 15 years
Nevada Registration Status Active

Bar Admissions: State Bar of Nevada Lawyer Advertising Advisory Committee, Member 2008-Present Nevada Justice Association, Associate Member 2007-Present Nevada State Bar, Associate Member 2006-Present American Association for Justice, Associate Member 2006-Present