Fireworks, Alcohol Dominate Fourth of July Weekend Injuries

The 4th of July weekend is synonymous with barbecues and fireworks across America. But you don't want to be that "Florida man" with four fingers and a beer in your hand at the beach at the end of it.

According to a report by Fox News, the Pew Research Center found more than 45,000 people visit the ER between Independence Day and July 5th each year. And you guessed it, a number of those visits are from people lighting off bottle rockets and Roman candles.

Fireworks are "by far" the most common source of injury, Dr. Robert Biernbaum noted in the report.

"We see everything from minor hand and facial burns to severe trauma from fireworks exploding in close proximity," Biernbaum told Fox News.  "Improvised or illegal fireworks tend to cause the worst damage."

Including hand injuries, fireworks can cause eye irritation due to flying debris or burns in an explosion. Loud blasts can also cause hearing damage, including ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus.

Those aren't the only injuries happening.

It's usually pretty hot in Florida during the 4th, so the combined heat and Budweiser (or two or three) could increase the likelihood of falls or cuts, as well as serious vehicle accidents and alcohol poisoning, doctors said.

Boating-related accidents are also a common occurrence. Florida's intercoastal waterways are often dotted with boats waving American flags this weekend, leading to an increased possibility of congestion and danger if drivers are under the influence.

"We often see head injuries or fractures in patients who’ve had too much to drink," Biernbaum added.

Floridians looking for a more mellow time should also be careful.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, July is the peak month for grill fires, so take another look at your burger or hot dog as you celebrate with friends and family.

July also has the highest number of drowning deaths compared to other months, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), so parents should keep an eye out for their children by the pool or at the beach.