By Kristy Warren

The Laurel Health Centers wish everyone a healthy and safe Fourth of July weekend to connect with friends and family. 

All Laurel Health sites will be closed on Friday, July 3rd and Saturday, July 4th in observation of the holiday, including the Laurel Health Centers, Laurel Dental, Laurel Health's walk-in care programs, and Laurel Behavioral Health offices. 

Need help over the holidays? Our 24/7 nurse triage team will be available to help address non-urgent health questions and review appointments after hours. Simply call your Laurel Health office after hours to be automatically connected to our triage line or call 1-844-284-6589. If you need immediate medical assistance over the holiday, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 

Independence Day celebrations result in a large number of injuries and accidents each year. This Fourth of July, please remember:

• Be extra careful when handling any type of fireworks or flame, including sparklers, grills, BBQ pits, and campfires. Improper handling of either can lead to serious injury and fires.
  
  
• Don't operate a vehicle, boat, or machinery when under the influence.
  
  
• Protect your ears if you'll be close to a fireworks display; this is especially important for babies and young children who have sensitive hearing and small ear canals prone to noise-induced hearing loss.
  
  
• Remember that while fireworks are a common part of July Fourth celebrations, not everyone enjoys them. Please remain mindful of people who have disabilities or conditions that may be triggerd by fireworks, veterans, children, and pets if someone will be setting off fireworks in or near your neighborhood.
  
  
• Fireworks can trigger people with certain disabilities, health conditions, or mental health conditions. For example, some people with autism may find fireworks overwhelming; it can also trigger a PTSD response or combat flashbacks in some veterans. If fireworks negatively affect you or someone you love, take steps to prepare for Fourth of July so you have a plan in place to keep the holiday enjoyable and mitigate your exposure to triggering sounds or lights where possible. Be aware that fireworks often persist the full holiday weekend, so you may need to plan for multiple days. 
  
  
• Do not bring pets to events with fireworks displays. Animals frequently react with extreme distress to loud noises, particularly in unfamiliar or crowded environments, and may attempt to run away. Ensure your pets are secure, safe, and comfortable at home. It's a good idea to plan ahead if your pet needs additional support for managing loud sounds or flashes (e.g., a veterinarian-prescribed tranquilizer or thunder shirt). 
  
  
• Follow water safety guidelines if you'll be around any bodies of water (e.g., pools, ponds, rivers, or lakes). 
  
  
• Skin safety is important at every age! When it's time to hit the picnic or pool, remember to wear sunscreen rated SPF 30+ or higher that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Re-apply after swimming or sweating. 
  
  
• Watch for any signs of heat illness like heat cramps or dizziness, which can quickly progress to dangerous heat stroke.
  
  
• Soda and alcohol are dehydrating, so stock the cooler with plenty of water and make sure everyone stays properly hydrated, especially if you'll be outdoors or active in the heat.

To reach our nurse triage team over the holidays, call 1-844-284-6589 or visit our Contact page for individual office contact information. Remember, if it's an emergency, always call 911 or go directly to the nearest ER.