When it comes to the Fourth of July, let’s make sure that the truth of SAFETY is held to be self-evident!
Barbecues, a body of water, friends and family… it’s the Fourth of July, and we want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but of course, we want you to enjoy it safely. Too many times people let their safety guards down on holidays, and that’s why it’s super important that YOU are paying attention to the details – because not everyone else is.
So, with that in mind, here are a few quick tips to keep on your radar this Fourth of July:
1. Are fireworks legal where you are going to be? If not – don’t take them there. And 99% of the time, this is for good reason – perhaps the area doesn’t have the proper level of fire protection. Also, it’s a good idea to pay attention to local news reports to be sure the area hasn’t had a dry spell and is temporarily banning fireworks.
2. If you are having a fireworks activity, make sure an adult is supervising! Children can get too excited and are likely to do something foolish. Did you know that sparklers alone account for one-fourth of emergency room fireworks injuries?
3. Also with fireworks, keep a bucket of water nearby to quickly alleviate any malfunction or fire.
4. If a firework does malfunction, do NOT relight it! Throw it in the water bucket and then throw it away.
5. A good way to get hurt is by lighting a firework in a container – especially one that is glass or metal. Don’t do it.
6. Grilling out? Great – we’ll take our burger medium well. But make sure that your grill is set up well away from your home, deck railings, and out away from overhang or tree branches.
7. If you are grilling with gas – open it up before lighting.
8. Periodically remove grease buildups in trays on your gas grills.
9. Set a boundary! Declare a three-foot “kid and pet-free zone” around your grill. They don’t need to be there.
10. If you are the grilling chef, make sure you aren’t wearing loose clothing that can easily catch fire.
We want you to enjoy the Fourth of July SAFELY. Make sure that there is always a sober driver, that there are lifejackets in the boat, and that you are taking just that few extra minutes to prepare a safe situation for everyone to enjoy.