Grill, Chill, and Stay Safe: A Guide to a Healthy Fourth of July and Summer Cookout Season

The Fourth of July (and summer in general) is a time for celebration, full of sizzling cookouts, backyard games, and brilliant fireworks that light up the summer night. But while you're enjoying the festivities with friends and family, it's important to keep safety top of mind, especially when it comes to grilling, food handling, and fireworks.

Each year, Kent Hospital treats avoidable injuries in the Emergency Department that can put a damper on your summer fun. Here’s how you can keep your gathering safe and healthy.

Grill Smart: Safety Starts Before the Flame

Grilling is a summer and Fourth of July staple, but it comes with risks. Every year, thousands of people suffer burns and injuries related to grills. Make sure you follow these basic safety rules:

• Place your grill in a safe spot – Keep it well away from your house, deck railings, or low-hanging branches.
• Never leave a hot grill unattended – Accidents happen quickly, especially when kids are running around.
• Check your equipment – If using gas, inspect hoses for leaks and damage. For charcoal, use proper starter fluid and never add it to an open flame.
• Keep children and pets away – Create a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around the grill.
• Use long-handled tools – They help prevent burns and keep you at a safer distance from the flames.

Food Safety: Keep the Feast Fresh

Nothing ruins a celebration like food poisoning. In the summer heat, bacteria thrive – and that’s bad news for your picnic table. Here’s how to keep your cookout foods safe:

• Cook meat thoroughly – Use a food thermometer:

• Avoid cross-contamination – Keep raw meats separate from fruits, veggies, and other sides.
• Refrigerate leftovers quickly – Perishable food shouldn't be left out for more than two hours (one hour if it's over 90°F).
• Pack smart – Use coolers with ice packs for items like potato salad, coleslaw, and dips.
• Wash your hands and surfaces often – Especially after handling raw meats or seafood.

Fireworks: Dazzling but Dangerous

While fireworks are a thrilling way to cap off the night, they’re also one of the leading causes of summer-related injuries. According to the National Fire Protection Association, consumer fireworks cause 90% of fireworks injuries treated in emergency rooms.

Here are some tips to stay safe:

• Leave it to the pros – Public displays are the safest and most spectacular option.
• Never let children handle fireworks – Even sparklers can burn at over 1,200°F, hot enough to cause third-degree burns.
• Don’t mix fireworks and alcohol – Impaired judgment leads to risky behavior.
• Read and follow all instructions – Ignoring safety guidelines is a common cause of injury.
• Light fireworks outdoors in open areas – Stay away from buildings, dry grass, and other flammables.
• Keep water nearby – A hose or bucket can help in case something goes wrong.
• Protect your eyes – Safety goggles aren't just for the lab.
• Don’t relight duds – Wait 20 minutes and soak them in water.
• Keep pets inside – Loud booms can cause panic and injury to animals.

Kent Hospital is Here if You Need Us

In the event of a serious burn, food-related illness, or fireworks injury, the Kent Hospital Emergency Department is open 24/7, providing expert care. However, with the right precautions, we hope you can enjoy a safe summer and festive Fourth without needing a visit.

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis.  If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical treatment.