What Causes the Most Fatalities on July 4th?
One could argue that anything, if used inappropriately, can be dangerous. A power tool, for example, that is helpful in one situation can be deadly in another. When it comes to disaster, intention is irrelevant: play things, such as inflatable kiddie pools-which are intended for fun and respite from the summer heat-can become tragic without adult supervision. Moreover, minacious objects need not be rare to cause harm: common, every day items, like, say, a folding chair, can become a weapon given the necessity. Furthermore, if inappropriate use is the qualifier for danger, overindulgence, amongst many other human behaviors, can render an otherwise innocent commodity fatal. When most Americans think of Fourth of July hazards, however, many wrongly believe that fireworks cause the most accidental deaths on the nation’s birthday.
If Firework Accidents Are Not the Most Dangerous Thing on Independence Day, Then What Is?
Considered to be one of the deadliest days to be on the road, Drunk Driving is the number one most dangerous thing on July 4th. Especially if the patriotic holiday falls on a weekend, the chances of fatal car accidents involving intoxicated drivers increases drastically.
Source: The Safe Motorist
According to the 2023 article “MADD Warns that Deaths from Drunk Driving Surge 39% Over the July 4th Weekend,” the President of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Tess Rowland, states:
“It’s heartbreaking to consider that every 24 minutes, someone will head to a cookout, the beach or fireworks display this weekend, but never return—simply because a driver got behind the wheel when they shouldn’t have.”
The article goes on to warn about alcohol being involved in a quarter of fatal boating incidents as well. MADD works tirelessly for a reality where there are #nomorevictims of drivers under the influence. If you or a loved one are a victim of drunk or drugged driving, call MADD’s victim advocacy helpline for free at 1-877-MADD-HELP. If you would like to learn more about how you can support MADD, or to make a donation, visit https://madd.org/ and follow MADD on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
At Pyro Penny, our mission is for everyone to have a safe, happy, celebration together.
Anything used inappropriately can be dangerous. Please follow all state laws and safety precautions listed here or on the product packaging when using fireworks. Just as importantly: Please drink responsibly. Get the facts and support to say “not one more.” Not one more impaired driver behind the wheel. Not one more preventable death. Talk to your kids about driving under the influence, these tips can help. If you suspect that someone is about to get behind the wheel intoxicated, stop them, and contact 911 if you suspect someone already on the road is impaired. Always error on the side of caution and use a designated driver, ride share, call a friend, or another means of avoiding getting behind the wheel while under the influence. Click here for additional resources for prevention. We wish everyone many safe and joyous Fourth of July celebrations with those you love.
\-This blog is dedicated in memory of Catherine Whelan, who was killed by a drunk driver and left behind three children, ages three, two, and one. She was the grandmother I never met, and the matriarch who never had the privilege of raising my mother and uncles. Drunk Driving destroys families, and even generations later the loss is felt. #nomorevictims
Pyro Penny 
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