Tips For A Safe 4th Of July
Be a safe swimmer. Never swim alone, and make sure that kids water play is adequately supervised at all times.
If fireworks are legal in your community and are a part of your celebration, be sure to store and use them safely. Keep kids away from the fireworks at all times and keep spectators at a safe distance.
Use alcohol responsibly. Alcohol and fireworks can be a hazardous combination. Also be sure to have a designated driver and avoid swimming after consuming alcohol.
Review safe boating practices. Lakes, waterways and seas will be crowded with boats, so it's important to become familiar with the boating laws in your area. Also be sure to have an adequate number of life vests on hand.
Apply sunscreen before and during an outdoor party. UV rays can cause premature aging, skin cancer, and a potentially painful burn the next day. It's important to routinely apply sunscreen, especially after swimming, and remember to take a few breaks from the sun throughout the day.
Spend adequate time indoors or in the shade and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Don't leave food sitting out all day. Allowing food to sit in outdoor temperatures can invite food-borne illness. The FDA suggests never leaving food out for more than one hour when the temperature is above 90 degrees F and not more than two hours at other temperatures.