Celebrating a Safe 4th of July
It’s nearly Independence Day. For 2021, the country is just starting to reopen from the COVID-19 pandemic. So, besides the usual tips, there are a few ways we can all work together to host a safe 4th of July this year.
Social Distancing and a Safe 4th of July
Many folks may be vaccinated, but safety should still stay top of mind. Even though the world is opening back up, it is a good idea to remain aware of your surroundings. As always, if something is making you feel uncomfortable, don’t feel pressured to stay put. Likewise, keep a healthy distance from one another. Everyone has different comfort levels, and it is important to be mindful of this when you are around others. If you’re worried about swimming, please remember that throughout the pandemic, swimming in your own pool has been considered a relatively safe activity. For the most part, the virus is not transmittable through water. The chlorine and other chemicals in a well-maintained pool are simply too powerful for the virus to survive. COVID-19 simply cannot survive in pool conditions that are properly maintained. That said, it is still best to keep your distance from other swimmers. For more COVID-19 safety information, consult the official CDC webpage.Kiddie Pool Safety
Within the past year, there’s been a major surge in people purchasing kiddie pools. That’s good news and fun for a barbecue. Just remember that someone always needs to be keeping a close eye on the little swimmers at all times. It only takes a few moments and shockingly little water for a safe 4th of July party to suddenly become tragic. We’ve written about this topic extensively, so you can learn more in our dedicated blog about kiddie pool safety.Fireworks Safety
It is Independence Day, so let’s talk fireworks! Now, obviously a safe 4th of July will mean that people remain far away from explosives. Of course, this is not always the case. If it is legal in your area to use fireworks, be sure to take the proper precautions. They may seem fun, but hospital emergency rooms are full of tragic mishaps each Independence Day.This year, have a safe 4th of July. Don’t end up a statistic. Instead, follow some basic safety precautions for fireworks:
- Follow the included directions on any and all fireworks.
- Don't modify or alter your fireworks. This includes combining them for bigger booms.
- Similarly, don’t build your own fireworks. If store-bought fireworks are dangerous, homemade explosives are a recipe for disaster.
- Always keep water and fully charged fire extinguishers close at hand.
- Alert spectators to keep their distance. You never quite know how a rocket will behave. There is always a chance for fireworks to fly in unexpected directions.
- Don’t drink and light firecrackers! In fact, avoid alcohol and any other drugs. If you’re lighting fireworks, make sure to remain totally sober.
- For better protection, wear safety goggles.
- Never assume an unexploded firecracker is “just a dud.” Instead, wait 20 minutes. If it still doesn’t ignite, soak the “dud” in a bucket of water. Once this is done, carefully dispose of it.
- Additionally, soak any leftover fireworks in water before disposing of them.
Pet Care and Fireworks
Finally, don’t forget your furry friends. Dogs and cats have no idea that recreational explosions are simply a fun tradition. In this case, Independence Day can be a terrifying ordeal for them. To help mitigate their worries, try these tips:- Keep a close watch and soothe the animals while fireworks are exploding. This will go a long way towards helping them get through the night.
- Don’t leave animals unattended.
- If you are leaving the pets at home on Independence Day, leave the TV or stereo playing at a loud volume. This can help to muffle any neighbors’ fireworks and keep them out of harm’s way.
