“Four score and seven years ago our fathers decreed it our patriotic duty to grill some hot dogs and watch fireworks,” Abraham Lincoln definitely, absolutely once said. However you plan to celebrate our nation’s birthday, declare your independence from accidental injuries with these tips for a safe July 4th!
Fourth of July Safety
Leave the Fireworks to the Professionals
In 2018 alone, emergency rooms saw 9,100 people for injuries related to amateur fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, they also caused over 19,000 fires that same year. The safest way to enjoy ‘the rockets red glare’ is to attend a public fireworks show put on by trained professionals.
If You Set Off Fireworks Anyway, Do It Right
Setting off fireworks yourself can be very dangerous, but with a few precautions you can reduce some of the risks involved. Keep an ample supply of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire. Make sure the person lighting the fireworks wears eye protection, and never allow children to handle fireworks. Don’t attempt to re-light a “dud” and, of course, never point fireworks or sparklers at people or pets.
Keep the Kids Safe At the Pool
If you’re bringing the little ones to the pool for the 4th, make sure they’re ready before they dive in. Children (and inexperienced adults!) should be able to enter the water, stay afloat, change direction, swim at least 25 yards, and get out of the water safely. If they can’t, they should wear properly fitted life jackets before getting in the water. Regardless of ability, all children should always be supervised while in or near the water.
Stay Safe On The Road
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 4th of July is the deadliest day of the year for fatal drunk driving accidents. If you’re planning to have a few cold ones while you celebrate, make sure you have a designated driver.
Be A Hero Behind The Grill
Over 19,000 people a year end up in emergency rooms due to injuries involving grills. To keep your cookout a safe one, make sure you always grill outside, keep kids and pets away from the grill, and never leave it unattended. Click here for more advice on how to make sure your guests leave with memories of your amazing burgers, not a visit to the ER.
written by Jon Becker
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