News Archives 2003

Red Cross Advises Oregonians to Have Fun on the Fourth
Without Taking a Vacation from Safety

PORTLAND, Ore. – July 2, 2003 – The American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter encourages Oregonians to think about four things associated with summer and fun that can be risk factors to families and friends: barbecues, fireworks, sun and water.

“Summer is finally here and most of us are focused on taking advantage of the good weather,” said Sue Hildick, executive director of the Oregon Trail Chapter. “As families are making plans, it’s a good idea to make time to go over some basic safety tips.”

Safety Statistics

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimated that 8,800 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in the United States in 2002
• Over the past 10 years, 30 percent of injuries associated with fireworks have typically been caused by illegal explosives or homemade fireworks, according to the National Council on Firework Safety.
• Every year, people are killed or injured in fires and explosions caused by the malfunction or careless use of grills. According to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, the Fourth of July is the most popular holiday with 76 percent of grill owners barbecuing.
• According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 3,400 drowings occur annually. For every child that drowns, six require emergency care for near-drowning or non-fatal submersion injuries.

Grilling Safely
From the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association

• Set up grill in an open area away from buildings, dry leaves or brush.
• Be aware of the wind blowing sparks.
• Place on a level surface away from low hanging trees, deck railings, siding or combustible materials.
• Keep a fire extinguisher within reach.
• Use long handled barbecue tools and flame retardant mitts.
• Do not wear loose clothing and watch for dangling apron strings and shirt tails.
• Never leave children or pets unattended near a hot grill.

Firework Safety
From the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety

• Have an adult present and never give fireworks to small children.
• Always have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby.
• Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing them in a trashcan.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

Basic Water Safety
From the American Red Cross

• Learn to swim. One of the best things anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is learn to swim. No one, including adults, should ever swim alone. Adults should practice “reach supervision” which means to be within arm’s length of a child in case an emergency occurs.
• Know your children’s skills and limits. Despite progress made last summer in swim lessons, kids may need to refresh their skills from last season. Also, they may not be as skilled in the ocean, lakes and rivers as they are in a swimming pool. Give kids a chance to get acclimated to the water again and make sure they are closely supervised.
• Use the proper gear. Adults and children who are not strong swimmers or who appear to rely on rafts and inflatable toys for safety should use U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) when they are in or around the water. Everyone, including strong swimmers, should use an approved PFD when boating. Each person should have the appropriate personal flotation device for his or her weight and size, which is found clearly marked inside the label near the Coast Guard stamp. Also, always keep basic lifesaving equipment by residential pools such as a first aid kit, cordless phone, emergency contact list, a reaching pole and a ring.

Being Safe in the Sun
From the American Red Cross

• Dress for warm weather. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or use an umbrella. Try to cover or shade your face and eyes.
• Stay hydrated. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
• Eat small meals and eat often. Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase metabolic heat.
• Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with at least a SPF-15 or higher, to all exposed areas of the body. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days and especially after swimming or perspiring.

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2003 Archives

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American Red Cross, Oregon Trail volunteers respond to house fires every 32 hours on average.
To assist the Red Cross in providing disaster relief, please call (503) 528-5634.
To prepare yourself and your family for fire or other disasters, go to www.PrepareOregon.org