The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and your community. The grill gets fired up, parades happen, and fireworks erupt. While enjoying the celebration, taking a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone has a fun and safe weekend.
Fireworks Safety
Fireworks are best left to the professionals. If you choose to use legal consumer fireworks, adults should always supervise, and children should never handle them. Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby, never relight a firework that doesn’t ignite, and avoid using fireworks if you’ve been drinking alcohol. It’s always best to enjoy fireworks that are being set off by a community organization in a controlled location. While New York has some of the strictest firework laws, here’s some additional information: New York Fireworks Laws: What’s Legal and What’s Not – LegalClarity
Grill with Care
Nothing says summer like a backyard barbecue. Before lighting the grill, check for gas leaks and never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire. Keep children and pets at least a couple feet away from the grill and never leave it unattended while cooking. Use a food thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to a safe internal temperature and refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
Beat the Heat
July temperatures can rise quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day – even if you don’t feel thirsty – and limit sugary or alcoholic beverages that can contribute to dehydration. Take breaks in the shade and wear lightweight clothing. Always remember the signs of heat exhaustion, which includes dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, and fatigue.
Protect Your Skin
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more often after swimming or sweating. Sunglasses, hats, and shade provide additional protection from harmful UV rays.
Make Healthy Choices
Holiday cookouts can still be nutritious. Try to include fresh fruits and vegetables, choose lean grilled proteins like chicken or fish, and enjoy whole-grain side dishes when possible. Don’t worry, we know hamburgers and hot dogs are a must for some, so just try to add other healthy options (if possible). Remember to eat regular meals to help avoid overeating later in the day.
Keep Everyone Safe
Always keep an eye on young children. Cut food into small pieces to help prevent choking, especially for young children eating hot dogs or other picnic favorites. If you’re celebrating away from home, designate a sober driver or arrange a safe ride before festivities begin. Whether you’re going out or staying in, have a first aid kit readily available.
From all of us at Orleans Community Health, we wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and memorable Fourth of July!