4th of July Safety Tips

CREATED Jul. 1, 2012 - UPDATED: Jul. 4, 2012

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Have a fun and safe holiday by following these safety tips!

Outside

In hot weather, be sure to stay hydrated! Drink lots of water if you plan on spending time in the sun.

Be sure to lather up with sunscreen! Don't risk a burn - stick with waterproof or sweat-proof sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for extended periods outside. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses!

Food

Be sure to keep food covered when outside to avoid bugs and dirt. Know which foods can be kept out for extended periods of time and what needs to be refrigerated to avoid food poisoning. 

Keep children away from grills.

 

Fireworks

If you plan on celebrating the holiday with fireworks, do so with caution. Keep away from children.

Use outdoors only, in open space.

Obey local laws - if it's not legal, don't do it!

Have water handy (just in case!)

Do not attempt to re-light a "dud." Soak any fireworks that do not go off as they should and dispose of them accordingly.

 

Camping

Invest in bug spray! Avoid becoming a snack for insects in heavily wooded areas.

Follow regulations for fires. Never leave a fire unattended and always be sure it is completely extinguished before departing.

Camp in authorized areas.

 

Water Activities

Be sure to supervise children any time they are near water. If you plan on making your way to an area that might be crowded like a watermark or beach, encourage the use of the buddy system and have periodic check-ins. Lifeguards are there in case of emergencies - don't assume they will see everything. Never leave young children unattended, and use proper floatation devices.

Swim in authorized areas.