Drowning, fireworks and car accidents are among the leading causes of death during the “trauma season”

Authorities are warning Connecticut residents to be cautious during Independence Day celebrations, which often coincide with the summer holidays, to avoid accidents and injuries.

Sarah Eagan, child advocate and child protection commissioner for the state of Connecticut, points out that drowning is the leading cause of death among children between the ages of one and four.

“It can happen quietly – or very quickly,” Eagan said at a pre-holiday press conference at Connecticut Children’s.

Eagan stresses that adults should be vigilant around pools and bodies of water and that those responsible for children’s safety should do so soberly.

According to Kevin Borrup, executive director of the Connecticut Children’s Injury Prevention Center, fireworks are also a major problem.

“Never let children handle fireworks and keep them at a distance when setting off fireworks at home,” said Borrup. “Children between the ages of 5 and 9 are twice as likely to be injured by fireworks as other people.”

Fireworks safety also includes the popular handheld sparklers, which, as Borrup notes, reach temperatures of 1,000 °C (2,000 °F) and can melt metal.

“Every year, 1,100 sparkler injuries are recorded in emergency rooms across the country,” Borrup said. “Always supervise the use of these items. They should be held in your hand, not walked around or played with.”

Borrup said the safest way to enjoy fireworks during the Christmas season is to attend professional displays rather than setting them off at home.

Another common cause of death and injury is car crashes, and a large proportion of these accidents are caused by drunk drivers. Connecticut State Police Sergeant Luke Davis says enforcement will be increased this holiday weekend.

“Police will be out in full force,” Davis said. “In addition to regular patrols, officers will also be working overtime to look for erratic drivers who are under the influence of alcohol. Please keep that in mind no matter where your plans take you. Designate a driver, use a rideshare program, or just stay put.”