Independence Day is the biggest celebration of the summer. Fireworks, barbecues, fairs, and water activities are the usual ways to help celebrate the 4-day weekend we’ll have this year. With all the fun we’ll be having, it’s important to not forget that safety shouldn’t be forgotten.
-Have a hose, fire extinguisher, and buckets of water to easily put out any fires and extinguish used fireworks.
-Be attentive when children are holding sparklers. Sparkler temperatures can reach above 1000°F and can easily burn a child’s skin.
-Consider ear protection for babies and young children. Fireworks can be very loud and can damage a baby or young child’s delicate ears.
-Keep pets indoors for firework displays. Consider leaving a tv or radio on as white noise so they don’t get startled as easily.
-Create a 3-foot safe zone for children and pets around the grill to prevent burns.
-Keep your grill at least 2 feet away from decks, siding, branches, and any outdoor equipment that may catch fire.
-Assign a lifeguard at the pool to ensure there are dedicated eyes on pool activities.
-Apply and reapply sunscreen often. It should be applied at least every 2 hours and at least every 45 minutes if you’re swimming or sweating.
-Temporarily tattoo your child with your name and phone number if you’ll be in crowds whether it’s at a fair, parades, or firework shows in case you lose sight of them. You can use a sharpie to write your information on your child and then seal it with liquid bandage.
-Be sure there are enough life jackets for every person aboard a boat. Never consume alcohol while operating a boat.
-Make sure you’re staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration especially if you’ve been consuming alcohol and also find a shady area to avoid heatstroke if you start feeling overheated.
-Make sure perishable foods are not left out for more than an hour. Food poisoning probably isn’t the way you’d want to spend your holiday weekend.
-Stay off the road on the Fourth of July. Highway safety reports show that the July 4th has the highest road fatalities of the entire year. If you are out driving, be sure you’re sober, aware of your surroundings, and all passengers are properly restrained.
On July 4, 1776, our original 13 colonies claimed their independence from England which eventually led to the formation of the United States. That’s a big reason to celebrate! Just be sure you’re doing it safely! From all of us at De Hart Plumbing Heating & Cooling, Have a Wonderful and Safe Fourth of July! And as always, we’re here to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; call us at 785-341-4193!
De Hart Plumbing Heating and Cooling, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas, Wamego Kansas, Topeka Kansas, and some surrounding areas.