safety tips
July 4th Safety Tips
BLOGS AND NEWS | July 1, 2024

Here are a few July 4th Safety Tips from Your Friends at LARGO Consulting Services to kick off the Independence Day Celebration!

Summer is in full swing, and we’re ready to celebrate the 4th of July in style! But safely. Don’t let injuries or accidents put a damper on your Fourth festivities.

Stay cool and follow these tried-and-true fireworks, grill, water safety, and pet safety tips for a fantastic July 4th!

July 4th Safety Tips – Fireworks Safety Tips

Be aware that fireworks can pose significant risks. According to a new report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 9,700 Americans were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2023.

If you light up a few fuses, do so carefully and always follow the safety guidelines. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable Independence Day celebration.

  • Always follow local laws regarding consumer fireworks.
  • Use a long lighter, candle, or punk stick to light your legally obtained fireworks.
  • Never attempt to make your own fireworks or to modify consumer fireworks.
  • Never point aerial fireworks (such as legal bottle rockets) or non-aerial fireworks (such as sparklers) at yourself or others.
  • Only light fireworks from the ground and in fire-resistant areas and free from flammables.
  • Do not use fireworks if your location is under drought warning or fire restrictions.
  • Do not use fireworks in windy conditions.
  • Light one firework at a time.
  • If a firework doesn’t ignite or malfunctions, do not attempt to reignite it. Douse it with water and dispose of any un-ignited fireworks.
  • Have a fire extinguisher and a hose nearby.
  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers.

July 4th Safety Tips – Grill Safety Tips

We love a good 4th of July BBQ as much as the next American, but we’re not huge fans of crispy fingers. Here are a few FEMA-sanctioned grill safety tips:

  • Only use your grill outside. Keep it at least 3 feet from the siding, deck rails, and eaves.
  • Keep a 3-foot safe zone around your grill. This will keep kids and pets safe.
  • Open your gas grill before lighting.
  • Please watch your grill, fire pit, or patio torches, and don’t walk away from them when they are lit.
  • Clean your grill after each use to remove grease that can start a fire.
  • Place the coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled.
  • Declare a three-foot “kid and pet-free zone” around the grill to keep them safe.
  • Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire when cooking on the grill.

4th of July Safety Tips – Water Safety Tips

If you’re lucky enough to show your patriotism on a boat or poolside, follow these basic water safety tips:

  • Follow safe boating practices.
  • Wear life vests.
  • Don’t consume alcohol while driving a boat.
  • Carefully supervise children and young swimmers.
  • Have a first aid kit onboard or near the pool.

For more information on water safety, check out our post, “Water Safety and Pool Safety Tips for a Safe Summer!”

July is one of the hottest months in most parts of the country. Don’t ruin your Independence Day celebrations with a nasty case of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Remember, heat-related illnesses are entirely preventable!

  • Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.
  • Keep your cool with a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Move the festivities indoors if it gets too hot.
  • Have plenty of water available for your guests.
  • Set up outdoor fans or cool rooms for your guests to relax.
  • Make sure everyone’s taking advantage of the sunscreen you’ve provided.

July 4th Safety Tips – Tips for Pet Safety

Keeping your pets safe during the 4th of July is crucial, as the loud noises and bright lights from fireworks can cause significant stress and anxiety. Ensuring their safety and comfort prevents potential escape attempts and reduces the risk of injury or trauma.

  • Keep your pets at home
  • Secure pets indoors early
  • Create a calming space
  • Avoid fireworks and loud noises
  • Keep identification tags on pets
  • Distract with toys and treats

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Copyright 2024

This blog has been updated since being originally published in 2019

LARGO Consulting Services, LLC is committed to providing safe and secure environments where you live, work, study, and play. For more information about our security consulting services, visit our website at LARGO Consulting Services, LLC, or call 833-LARGOCS.

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