Independence Day Tips

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July  4th is right around the corner and many of you have traditions that go along with that!  While we sure want you to have fun, we wanted to talk about the Top 5 Potential Hazards for July 4th!

1. Fireworks Accidents:  Your best bet for safety is to leave it to the Professionals!  I am sure many of you grew up lighting fireworks yourself on your street or at the lake, but it is a hazard and can cause burns, injuries and fires.  What goes up.... must come down. Plus you have fireworks that malfunction and I am willing to bet some of you got chased by some of those fireworks that did not go as planned.  I can hear it now "But sparklers...."  Nope, sparklers are dangerous as well.  With temperatures up to 2,000 degrees, sparklers are not a toy and a child shouldn't be allowed to play with them.

2.  Heat-Related Issues:  Fireworks don't start until it gets dark, yet we have to get there early to get a good seat or good parking place.  Be sure to pack extra waters to help keep you and your crew hydrated.  Yes, even though it means more bathroom breaks!  With prolonged time in this hot Texas weather, heat exhaustion and /or heat strokes are nothing to be taken lightly.  Know the symptoms and take action immediately.  

3.  Grilling and Fire Hazards:  First of all, make sure your grill is located in a safe place and has good ventilation.  That added heat to our already hot July can make it harder to enjoy grilling, especially with a crowd.  Do not leave the grill unattended or use in unsafe location. Watch for kids running around and getting too close. The additional heat from the grill is also potential for the heat exhaustion and / or heat stroke mentioned above.

4.  Alcohol-Related Incidents:  Celebrating with a cold beer may be enjoyable, but be aware of drinking too much in this heat in an effort to stay hydrated.  Please don't drink and drive - that goes for your vehicle, jet ski or boats.  Impaired is impaired regardless of the mode of transportation.  People tend to take more risks after drinking, so the opportunity for accidents is increased dramatically.  In a crowd, you may tend to drink more so be aware of the risk of alcohol poisoning.

5.  Water Safety Issues:  Spending time at the lake or in the pool is always a fun idea....until it isn't. Drowning doesn't sound like we see in the movies.  Watch children constantly. That means when you are going inside to get a glass of tea, you either require the kids to get out of the pool or you assign someone to the task of watching the children.  That doesn't mean while you are reading your book, grilling your burgers or laying out catching some rays.  It means diligent eyes on the pool or lake where they are playing and swimming.  

July 4th should be fun day for gathering around and celebrating, but please celebrate responsibly so that everyone stays safe and able to enjoy the day!

HAPPY 4TH TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!