The Fourth of July is a favorite summer holiday for most of us.
We all love the summer weather, water play, great food, and fun that we get to have on the Fourth of July! But, even in all the excitement, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential dangers and take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents that could ruin your day.
Keep your kids a safe distance from water and fireworks
With all the holiday excitement, it’s common for kids to want to run around and play in or near water.
But keep a close eye on them and make sure they are a safe distance away from hazards. Standing water on cement, especially right next to a pool or stairs can be very slippery and cause an accident. If your festivities involve water play, designate an adult to watch the children at all times. For an extra precaution, make sure your kids are wearing water shoes, which will help prevent slipping.
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Fireworks are another tradition that poses one of the biggest dangers to children and pets.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend an official fireworks show. But many families enjoy lighting their own in their neighborhoods, which can be a danger with kids around. If you’re planning on lighting your own fireworks:
- Find a space away from fire hazard areas like areas with dry grass, fuel tanks, cars, and furniture.
- Only light fireworks if it is legal to do so in your area – many areas in the USA have firework restrictions in place.
- Keep kids a safe distance from where home fireworks will be ignited – and remember that many of them jump and fly once lit.
- Keep the sparklers out of the hands of little kids to avoid burns.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of any unplanned fires.
Pets also commonly struggle with the noise and light from fireworks. Keep your pets indoors during fireworks shows and nowhere near any home fireworks.
Make sure they’re wearing sunscreen and hats
With all the outdoor activities, it’s crucial to ensure your kids are protected from the sun. Apply sunscreen before you head out and reapply as needed throughout the day. Don’t forget to have them wear a hat or sunglasses to help shield their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
TIPS: Read here about our tips for keeping your kids safe in the sun
Stay hydrated
Kids AND parents should drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially if you’re being active outdoors. Be sure to watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, excessive sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. If you or your child start feeling unwell after being outside in the heat, move to a cool area and hydrate with water, tea, or even some fruit.
Keep an eye out for allergens at barbecues
If your child has food allergies, be sure to check with the host of any Fourth of July barbecue you attend to see what’s on the menu. This way, you can be prepared with any necessary allergy medication and make sure your child doesn’t react to any of the food. You can also pack some safe snacks for them to eat in case you’re not sure what will be available.
Be aware of your surroundings and who is around you
When celebrating the Fourth of July, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. Some bad actors can take advantage of large crowds, so be sure to keep an eye on your kids and belongings and stay with your group. There have also been cases of people being injured by fireworks, so be sure to watch out for flying debris and stay a safe distance away from any fireworks that are being set off.
Wrapping it up
As exciting as this holiday can be, it’s important to remember that there are safety hazards associated with the festivities. By having an awareness of these dangers and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all, especially your kids. So have fun, but be safe while celebrating the Fourth of July.
