How to Have a Safe Fourth of July
Read tips on handling fireworks, swimming safety, preparing food and more for the Fourth of July.
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Safety Comes First - With BBQs, fireworks and family time, July 4 is a holiday that many of us look forward to. But even in all the fun, it’s important to make safety a priority during this time, too. Read about tips on handling fireworks, swimming safety, preparing food and more. — Kellee Terrell (Photo: Yana Paskova/Getty Images)
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Handing Fireworks - Fireworks are a major part of the Fourth of July’s festivities, but they also can cause a lot of accidents if not handled properly. Always read the directions carefully; never set off fireworks without adult supervision; light one at a time; and stand at least 25 feet away from them before setting them off.(Photo: GettyImages)
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Fire and the Fourth - Fires are very common during the summer, with fireworks being the most popular culprit. Make sure you keep a fire extinguisher around and a bucket of water near fireworks just in case. Also make sure you keep anything flammable away from fireworks. (Photo: GettyImages)
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Watch the Liquor - Drinking during the holiday is definitely a perk of partying, but be mindful of how much you consume. Whatever you do, don’t get behind the wheel and make sure you have a designated driver. Also, make sure to drink water too to stay hydrated, especially if it’s hot out. (Photo: GettyImages)
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Don’t Buy Illegal Fireworks - Some fireworks are illegal for a reason: They are incredibly dangerous. IndependenceDayFun.com warns to stay away from the following: Large re-loadable mortar shells; Ariel bombs, M-80 salutes, Cherry bombs and large fireworks. (Photo: David McNew/Getty Images)
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Say No to Charred Meat - Cooking at really high temps can release toxins that can increase our risk for developing certain cancers. Wrapping meat in foil while grilling can help reduce charring, says Time.com. Read all of their food safety tips here. (Photo: GettyImages)
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Don’t Forget About Fido - While you are partying your pet may be in danger. The ASPCA suggests that you keep lighter fluid and matches away; don’t let them eat human food because it can make them sick and be toxic; never use fireworks around them; and make sure to keep liquor out of their reach.(Photo: GettyImages)
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Preventing Food Poisoning - Making sure your food is safe is really important at a BBQ. In order to prevent foodborne illnesses, the U.S. Department of Agriculture wants you to clean utensils and surfaces, cook to the proper temperature, separate raw meat from cooked meat and chill leftover food or meat that has yet to be cooked.(Photo: GettyImages)
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Watch Out for the Kids - Kids are very much part of the fun on the Fourth too, so make sure you have a close eye on them. Keep sparklers and liquor out of their reach. Also, you may want to create a “child-free” zone away from grills to protect kids from getting burned. (Photo: GettyImages)
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