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The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but your holiday plans can also come with safety risks. If you have Independence Day plans this year, make sure to follow these safety tips to avoid any holiday mishaps. From grilling food to watching fireworks, we have you covered with everything you need to know to stay safe this Fourth of July!

Don’t forget sunscreen

Celebrating the Fourth of July often involves spending long hours outdoors. To protect your skin from harmful UV rays, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. 

Never relight fireworks

One of the most important rules when handling fireworks is to never attempt to relight or pick up a firework that didn’t go off as planned. A dud firework can still be live and may ignite unexpectedly, causing serious injuries. It’s best to wait for at least 20 minutes before approaching it, and then carefully douse it with water using a bucket or hose before disposing of it properly.

Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby

Fireworks have the potential to start fires, especially when used in dry areas. To prevent any unintentional fires, always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby when setting off fireworks. This enables you to quickly extinguish any flames that may arise.

Consider protective eyewear and ear protection

Safety gear is essential when handling fireworks. Protect your eyes by wearing safety glasses to prevent potential injuries from sparks, debris, or malfunctioning fireworks. For young children, consider using ear protection like earplugs or earmuffs, as loud bangs can be startling and potentially harmful to their sensitive hearing.

Correctly dispose of used fireworks

Proper disposal of spent fireworks is critical to avoid fires. After a firework has been used, place the finished casing in a bucket of water to ensure that all embers are fully extinguished. Leave the fireworks submerged overnight before disposing of them in a metal trash can. This process helps eliminate any lingering embers that could reignite.

Additional safety tips:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area and abide by all local ordinances and guidelines for the use of fireworks.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person, animal, structure, vehicle or flammable material.
• Keep pets safe and calm by putting them indoors or in a secure, comfortable space, preferably with a familiar person nearby to help reduce anxiety.
• Planning on celebrating by the pool or on a boat? Follow our top tips for pool and boat safety before heading out on the water.

By following these essential safety tips, you can ensure that your celebrations are not only fun but also secure for everyone involved. Remember, a little preparation and caution can go a long way in preventing accidents and making sure everyone enjoys the holiday. Stay safe, have fun, and happy Fourth of July!

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