In Michigan, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the nation’s independence with family, friends, food, and fireworks. However, while the fourth of July can be a joyful, exciting time in Michigan, it is also considered one of the most dangerous holidays of the year. Each year, Michigan sees a spike in car crashes, boating accidents, firework accidents, and other summer related activities around the Fourth of July. In this blog, we will be discussing how to avoid these increased dangers so that you and your family can enjoy the holiday.
Firework Accidents
Being the largest firework holiday in Michigan and across the country, fireworks are the leading cause for injury claims on the Fourth of July in Michigan. Every year, hospitals see a major increase in burns, eye damage, and even lost fingers as a result of firework celebrations.
To avoid the dangers of fireworks on the Fourth of July, it’s important to prioritize safety and common sense, following the manufacturer’s instructions, keeping a safe distance after a firework has been lit, and always lighting only one at a time.
It is also extremely important to keep fireworks away from anyone under the age of 18, keep a hose or any water source nearby when lighting a firework, and avoid relighting any malfunctioning fireworks.
The number one cause of all of the mistakes mentioned above that result in firework accidents is alcohol. It is estimated that alcohol is involved in approximately 40-50% of firework related injuries in the US.
Not only is the consumption of alcohol before or while lighting off fireworks illegal in Michigan, but it also increases the chances of an injury/mishap happening exponentially.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is another serious danger on the Fourth of July, leading to more traffic fatalities than almost any other holiday.
Every year traffic fatalities spike in Michigan over the Fourth of July holiday with approximately 60% of the crashes involving alcohol. DUI arrests also spike during this time period, with 292 arrests occurring over the four day period that was the Fourth of July holiday in 2023.
The Fourth of July holiday is a major contributing factor to why the summer months are considered the “100 Deadliest Days” in Michigan, making the roads more dangerous than any other time of year.
This is why it is important to avoid unnecessary travel around the holiday, and, if you are on the road over the holiday, staying alert, avoiding distractions, and driving defensively is imperative in order to avoid injury or even fatality.
Beach Safety
With so many lakes and outdoor attractions, the beach is a popular place for Fourth of July celebrations in Michigan.
If you are going to the beach to celebrate the Fourth of July this year, it is important to understand that, even though the beach can be fun, it also brings serious dangers that can bring major consequences.
Beaches can become overcrowded, especially around the Fourth of July, increasing the risk of losing track of children or getting caught in a dangerous situation. It is important to avoid swimming alone at the beach as rip currents, which are common in the Great Lakes, can quickly pull swimmers out from shore.
Fireworks are also common on the beach over the Fourth of July holiday, so it is important that you follow all the same guidelines regarding fireworks mentioned above, especially if you are the one lighting them.
Lastly, like many other events on the Fourth of July, alcohol is usually involved at the beach which can increase the chance of accident or injury occurring. This is why it is important to stay alert, remain cautious, and make good decisions when at the beach, especially around the holiday.
Swimming Pool Safety
Swimming pools are another common way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Michigan, but, just like anything else, they pose significant health and liability risks that can be avoided.
Swimming pools are a leading cause of accidental death in the US, especially for young kids, so constant adult supervision is essential for safety.
Also, just like any other Fourth of July celebration in Michigan, alcohol and fireworks are commonly involved and can add another level of difficulty/danger to the situation.
The pool owner should ensure that the proper fencing, signage, and drains are in place, as premises liability can also play a role at a swimming pool party. As the property owner, failure to provide a safe environment for your guests can result in a premises liability injury claim which can be detrimental legally and financially.
Boating Accidents
With over 11,000 inland lakes while also being surrounded by multiple Great Lakes, boating is an extremely common way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Michigan.
However, as mentioned above, with the holidays comes increased alcohol use, higher risk of accidents, and crowded waterways.
No matter your experience level, it is important to exercise extra caution over the holiday, wearing life jackets, equipping your boat with all of the appropriate safety gear, and remaining sober, especially if you are driving, as boating under the influence is illegal and extremely dangerous.
It is also important to follow the designated speed limits of the body of water that you are on as speed is a leading cause for boating accidents.
Staying prepared, alert, and sober is crucial to keeping you and the people on your boat safe over the Fourth of July holiday.
Get David Get Paid
As Independence Day approaches, and you prepare to celebrate with your friends and family, keep safety at the forefront of your mind for your holiday plans. This Fourth of July, staying aware of your surroundings, following local laws, and, most importantly, avoiding alcohol can make all the difference in keeping you and the people around you safe. Whether you’re on the water, at the beach, or in a swimming pool, reviewing and carrying out the safety tips listed above is the key to keeping your Fourth of July fun without any setbacks.
If an injury does occur as a result of someone else’s negligence this Fourth of July, call the experienced team of lawyers at Femminineo Law. With over 100 combined years of experience we can guarantee that you will get the best legal representation possible. Call us today at 855-65-CRASH or visit our website at getdavidgetpaid.com.
