However people plan to celebrate Independence Day, the Red Cross has several tips to make sure they can do so safely.
Fireworks safety:
- Skip fireworks at home. Attend a public show or celebrate with glow sticks or noise makers instead.
- Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
- Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
- Light only one firework at a time, and never attempt to relight "a dud."
Grill safety:
- Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
- Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
- Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
- Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
- Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to help keep the chef safe.
- Wash your hands before preparing the food.
- Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
For additional tips, including water safety, beach safety and water park safety, visit redcross.org/watersafety.