10 Fourth of July Safety Tips

Independence Day is a time to celebrate the existence of this great nation. While these celebrations are taking place, the hospital emergency rooms prepare for a busy night. According to medical emergency workers, the Fourth of July is one of the deadliest holidays in the United States. To avoid becoming part of that statistic, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take the following safety tips into consideration.

 

Follow Instructions

If you're shooting off fireworks at home, always follow the instructions on the packaging. Even the slightest deviation could pose a serious safety threat. Make sure everyone, especially children, is at a safe distance when it is ignited, and that all limbs are safely out of the way. Know where all of the fire extinguishers are located or keep a bucket of water close by.

Protect Your Eyes

Just as you should protect your hands and other limbs when lighting a firework, be sure to protect your eyes as well. Safety goggles should be worn by whoever is setting them off.

Keep Pets Indoors

Always keep your pets inside during the festivities. Many pets are afraid of loud noises and might run away or become aggressive. Curious pets might try to chew on or eat things that could harm them.

Never Leave a Grill Unattended

Leaving a grill unattended invites a host of potential hazards. For instance, a grease fire could start and spread quickly. Also, a grill set too close to a building or other flammable objects might cause a fire, and children or loose pets can knock it over.

Be Weather Aware

The weather reports may indicate that storms will be in the area while celebrations are taking place. Also, heed any heat advisories and warnings of rip tide currents in the ocean.

Be Safe Swimming

Pay attention to any and all warnings about where swimmers are allowed to go. In addition to rip tides, deadly bacteria or harmful animals could be present. Beware of boats and other watercraft when swimming in lakes or the ocean. Never swim alone and always be sure that all children have properly fitted flotation devices. Lastly, only swim when sober.

Stay Cool

Apply plenty of sunblock to avoid skin damage and sunburn. Stay in the shade whenever possible and be sure to stay hydrated. Learn the signs of heat stroke before spending prolonged periods of time outdoors.

Practice Sparkler Safety

Children enjoy sparklers, so be sure to teach them never to run with them, wave them around, or throw them, as they could burn someone or spark a fire. Also, do not hold a child in your arms while using one.

Keep a First Aid Kit Handy

You never know what might happen, especially in a crowd. Be prepared for scraped-up knees, minor cuts and bruises, or something far more serious, by having a first aid kit close by.

Bug Prevention

Be sure to protect food and drinks from flies, bees, and other insects, and use bug repellent to help keep them off your skin. It might also be wise to keep medication in the first aid kit for those who might be allergic to insect bites or stings, especially if they are prone to anaphylactic shock.

However you choose to spend the holiday, be safe. It does not matter whether you are attending a large public venue or a small backyard gathering; these safety tips and precautions are applicable under any setting.