The Fourth of July is finally here! Let the
celebrations begin! Many people have the day off and usually plan a special day
out celebrating with family and friends! Some other plans may include going to
the beach, attending fireworks, relaxing with friends and family by the pool or
firing up the barbecue!
No matter what your plans are for July 4th,
The American Red Cross wants everyone to have an enjoyable yet safe Fourth of
July! They have issued a few simple steps that can insure you and your family stays safe this festive holiday!
Beach Safety: If you’re planning on
attending the beach tomorrow, be sure to check the weather and water conditions
before you leave and throughout the day. Also, only swim in designated areas
and where lifeguards are present at ALL times. Also, watch the sun! You should
limit the amount of time you spend in the direct sunlight between 10-4. Drink a
lot of water and avoid caffeine and all alcoholic beverages while being in the
sun. Make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses!
Other tips:
Actively
supervise children at all times - even if a lifeguard is present. Stay within
arm's reach of young children when they are in the water.
Have
weak swimmers wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Don't rely on water
wings or inflatable toys.
Always
enter shallow water feet first. Dive only in areas marked safe for diving.
Rip Currents: Be aware of the danger
of rip currents at all times!
Other tips:
If
caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until out of the current.
Once free, turn and swim toward shore.
If
someone can't swim to the shore, they should shout for help, float or tread
water until free of the rip current and then head toward shore.
Stay
at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often
exist near these structures.
Fireworks Safety: With every 4th
of July celebration come fireworks! Here are some tips to follow to stay safe.
Never
give fireworks to small children and always follow the instructions on the
packaging.
Keep
a supply of water close by as a precaution.
Make
sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
Light
only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
Store
fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
Never
throw or point fireworks toward people, animals,
Grilling Safety: If you’re planning on
heating up the BBQ tomorrow, be sure to follow these tips!
Always
watch the barbecue grill when in use.
Never
grill indoors - not in a house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
Make
sure children and pets stay away from the grill.
Keep
the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or
anything that could catch fire.
Use
the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the
chef safe.
Never
add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
Always
follow the manufacturer's instructions when using grills.
Have you ever followed any of these
tips before? Do you have any additional tips on ways to stay safe this
Independence Day? Let us know on our Facebook page linked HERE!
