Fourth of July Safety Tips In A COVID-19 Environment
The Fourth of July is just a few days away, and with that usually comes fireworks, crowds, and injuries. Fourth of July safety tips will look different from previous years as most counties are canceling their firework displays to cut down on crowds and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Counties are encouraging community members to watch from their homes or are streaming their display online. Check with your county to see if they will be streaming a virtual show or try searching “fireworks near me” to see if your county is still putting on a display.
Backyard Barbeques or pool parties are always popular for the fourth. Make sure you are being safe and continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask, maintain frequent hand hygiene, and stay home if you’re sick! We understand the temptation to gather for large parties is extremely high; however, people should still avoid large gatherings and non-essential trips and visits.
In our current environment, party planning must be all about managing risk and advance communications with all your guests! It’s important to always think about how our behavior affects others. We have put together some fourth of July safety tips for you and your guests.
Fourth of July Safety Tips :
No communal carafes of sangria or other beverages.
Banish the chip and salsa bowls.
Keep everyone outside, where the virus is less likely to spread.
Keep the guest list down to the number of people you can safely keep at least six feet apart in your yard and invite only those you can trust to follow your rules.
Think about who you’re inviting and what’s their level of risk.
As mentioned earlier, firework displays could be canceled in your counties. Now more than ever, there may be more families buying and setting off their own fireworks. It is essential to practice safety around fireworks. On average, over 150 people visit the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the weeks around July fourth. While most injuries are to the hands and fingers, fireworks can cause severe damage to your eyes as well.
Fireworks Safety Tips:
Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
Older children should use them only under close adult supervision.
Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands.
Never light them indoors.
Only use them away from people, houses, and flammable material.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
Never ignite devices in a container.
Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire.
Never use illegal fireworks.
For more July fourth and Summer safety tips, check out this article from ADT and our recent blog about pool safety. Stay safe and Happy Independence Day!
