July 4th weekend is a time for fun, good food, and celebration. Here we
offer a couple tips to stay safe so you, family, and friends can enjoy
the holiday.
Keeping Your Family Safe Around Fireworks
With 4th of July weekend just around the corner, you may be gearing up for a day
of fireworks, backyard barbecues, and possibly even a trip to the beach.
Whatever you have planned, it is important to keep safety in mind. According
to statistics from 2011, approximately 200 people were sent to the emergency room
every day in the month leading up to Independence Day due to firework-related injuries.
In the same year, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 fires. We encourage
you to safely enjoy your 4th of July celebration this year by attending a professionally-handled, public
fireworks show. You should also keep fireworks out of the reach of small
children—including sparklers. Even “kid friendly” sparklers
can reach temperatures above 1,000 degrees, which can cause serious burns
if not handled correctly.
Although not recommended, anyone using legal fireworks at home should:
- Keep a sizeable supply of water close by as a precaution
- Only light one firework at a time, away from other people
- Never try to relight a “dud” if it does not go off the first time
- Never point a firework at other people, animals or homes
- Store the fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children
Avoid “Peak Hours” for Driving
Every year, around 34 million Americans are expected to travel for 4th of July. Although you may practice safe driving, you never know who else
could be on the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 4th of July is the worst day of the year for fatal car accidents. In fact,
40% of all highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 were caused by drunk driving
over the 4th of July weekend.
If possible, try to avoid driving at “peak hours” for drunk
driving—including late at night. If you notice another driver swerving
on the road or engaging in potentially dangerous behavior, pull over and
contact the police. Not only could you prevent an accident, but you could
save someone’s life.
No matter how or where you celebrate, we hope you stay safe and enjoy the
holiday. Here’s to a safe and healthy 4th of July celebration!