Tips for a Fun and Safe Labor Day Weekend

West Chester, OH - Labor Day weekend is the last holiday of the summer and many families are planning one last party, barbeque or vacation before the kids go back to school and the weather turns colder. Unfortunately, an increase in accidents and emergency room visits is frequently seen over the holiday weekend as well.

"Outdoor and alcohol-related injuries and illnesses are to blame for a lot of ER visits over Labor Day," says Kevin Joseph, MD, Emergency Department Director at West Chester Medical Center. "The good news is that most of them are easily preventable by planning ahead and using a little common sense."

Some common complaints and tips to avoid them include:

• Burns caused by fireworks and sparklers - Only use fireworks in open areas, and never where there is dry wood or grass around that might catch fire. Keep a fire extinguisher close by. Only adults should handle fireworks, and children under 12 should not play with sparklers, which can burn at more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Sunburn and heat stroke - You can get sunburned even if the weather is cool or cloudy, so protect yourself with sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. If the weather is hot and you're spending time outdoors, remember to stay hydrated by drinking water and take frequent breaks in a shady place.
• Bug bites - Whether you're camping or relaxing in your back yard, protect yourself from dangerous bug bites by using an insect repellent containing DEET. Check your and your children's hair and clothes for ticks before going inside. If someone does get bitten, try not to scratch - dirt from your fingers can cause an infection. Call your doctor or go to the hospital if you experience a severe allergic reaction such as shock, shortness of breath or swelling of the face, hands or feet.
• Food poisoning - Cookouts are a tradition for Labor Day, and a few guidelines can keep your holiday from being ruined by food poisoning: Keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Cook all meat and poultry thoroughly (no pink left in the center) before serving, and throw away any food that has been sitting out for more than two hours.
• Boating accidents - Never drink alcohol while operating a boat; it's illegal just like drinking and driving, and it's just as dangerous. Be aware that there will be more boaters on the water than usual, and pay extra attention to what you - and others - are doing. Finally, always wear life-vests while on board a boat.
• Car accidents - Realize that traffic will be heavier than usual over the weekend and plan ahead to allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination and back. If you're traveling a long way, check your car's fluids, tires and air conditioning a few days before you leave to prevent a breakdown. Also plan to take regular breaks or switch off with another driver so you don't get sleepy at the wheel.
• Alcohol-related accidents - If you plan on drinking over the weekend, do not try to drive, and don't give your keys to someone else who has been drinking. Remember to drink lots of water, particularly if you are outdoors as you will become dehydrated more quickly in the sun.
• Cold & Flu - It may only be early fall, but it's the beginning of flu season so remember to wash your hands frequently, and cough or sneeze into a sleeve or tissue.

"These are all tips that we should practice year-round, whether it's a holiday or not," says Dr. Joseph. "It's so easy to prevent an unnecessarily trip to the emergency room. But if you do find yourself at West Chester Medical Center, there's no better place to get fixed up and back home quickly to enjoy the rest of your weekend."

West Chester Medical Center is a new 160-bed hospital in West Chester, Ohio, providing the latest technology delivered in a healing environment. Conveniently located and easily accessible, services include a full-service emergency department, and inpatient and outpatient diagnostic and treatment services. For more in formation about West Chester Medical Center, go to www.westchestermedcenter.com.

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