Tips for a Safe July 4th

Celebrating the Fourth of July and the birth of our nation’s independence is the most anticipated holiday of summer. Millions of Americans will head to the beach, lounge by the pool, take in a parade, and of course, celebrate with fireworks.

While Fourth of July festivities are fun, make sure they’re safe, too.

Take a look at these safety tips ahead of the holiday weekend.  

1. Be careful with fireworks. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that about 180 people seek care every day for fireworks-related injuries from mid-June to mid-July. More than 11,000 people were treated for fireworks injuries in U.S. hospital ERs.
   If you are using fireworks, read the warning labels and directions before lighting them. Keep a bucket of water or water hose handy for emergencies. Also buy your fireworks from a reputable fireworks stand or company.
2. See if fireworks are legal in your city. Know the laws and obey them. While fireworks may be legal in your county, they may not be permitted within city limits. Instead, find out if your city is sponsoring a fireworks show for everyone’s fun.
3. Use sun protection. The heat can be very dangerous to children and older adults. Wear a hat to protect your ears, eyes, forehead and scalp from the rays. Slather sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and re-apply throughout the day. Apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent.
4. Keep a watchful eye on the water. Whether you’re at the pool, lake or beach, always make sure at least one adult is watching when children are around water. The highest number of drowning deaths happen in June, July and August.  
5. Drink more fluids. During hot summers, it’s vital you and your children drink plenty of water. Your body needs more water when it is physically active and in a hot climate. Watch for signs of dehydration. Excessive sweating, thirst, headache, fatigue, dizziness, cramping and less urine output are all signs.
6. Keep the bugs away. Summer parties and vacations often have uninvited guests — bugs. When outside, apply insect repellent with one of these active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. Always follow the spray's instructions, reapply as directed, and do not apply repellent on the skin under clothing.

What plans do you have for celebrating Independence Day?

Source: 2021 Fireworks Annual Report,   Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2022; The Big Number: 180 People a Day Land in ER for Injuries from Fireworks,  Washington Post, 2019; Prevent Mosquito Bites,  Drowning Prevention,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022; Sunscreen FAQs,  American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2023 

Originally published 7/3/2017; Revised 2021, 2023