Celebrating Safely: Dr. Hilary Fairbrother’s Fourth of July Safety Tips on Heat & Water

EM Vice Chair of Education & Assistant Dean for Educational Programs at UTHealth Houston, Hilary Fairbrother, MD, MPH recently appeared on KPRC2 Houston News (external link) to discuss essential safety tips for celebrating the Fourth of July.

Click on the image below for the full video:

(external link)

During the interview, Dr. Fairbrother provided valuable advice on how families can stay safe in the heat and around water:

Heat Safety:

• Understand the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  • Heat stroke – is characterized by a change in mental status, such as confusion, delirium, combativeness, seizures, and sometimes loss of consciousness. Move the person to a cooler area, remove clothing if needed and give them ice. If symptoms worsen, please call 911.
  • Heat exhaustion – can present with dizziness, headache, nausea, weakness, unsteady gait, muscle cramps and fatigue. Move the affected person to a shaded or cool area, give them water, or spray them with water.
• If someone is confused or experiencing a seizure, seek medical attention immediately or call 911.

Water Safety:

• Regardless of your swimming ability, always respect the dangers of water. Drowning can occur due to unexpected health events or intoxication.
• Be proactive: carry a cell phone to call for help if needed.
• Keep a close watch on everyone, especially children when swimming. Designate a “family lifeguard.”
• If you see someone drowning, only attempt a rescue if you are a strong swimmer and can bring flotation devices to assist.
• When at beaches, be extra cautious of rip tides and other swimmers.

Stay safe and enjoy your holiday celebrations! Remember, a few precautions can make all the difference in ensuring a fun and accident-free holiday.

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