Some quick reminders for keeping you and your family safe while having fun during the Independence Day holiday.

Story by: Christina Dunavan on June 28, 2019

The Fourth of July brings people together every year just as much as it brings on the heat. With more time spent outdoors and celebrating, the risks of injury and illness increase.

Here are some quick reminders to help protect you as well as your friends and family.

Food safety

• Summertime is prime time for fruits and veggies; half of your plate should be a combination of these. Make sure to wash hands before preparing and enjoying meals.
• Food should be cooked at the correct temperature as well as kept at the correct temperature while being served.
• Proper food temperature and handwashing are critical to avoid food contamination.
• Stay hydrated. Daily fluid intake recommendations vary, but drinking plain water is a good way of getting fluids, especially on hot days out in the sun!

Water safety

• The heat and the holiday bring the opportunity for swimming and lots of water fun! Never swim alone, and always supervise children while swimming or playing near bodies of water.
• Reapplying sunscreen before and after being in the water is important.
• Do not swim in water that looks discolored, and if out on open waters use life jackets.
• While on a boat make sure there is a designated sober driver.

Heat safety/Sun safety

• The only things with burn marks this Fourth of July should be hamburgers and hotdogs, not your skin! Use sunscreen and stay in shaded areas when possible.
• Drink lots of water and watch for signs of heat exhaustion, which could look like nausea, cramps, confusion or dizziness.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a hot car, even with the windows down.

Fire Safety

• When using fireworks, follow instructions carefully and make sure all adults, children and pets are a safe distance away from lit fireworks. Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of fire.

Driving Safety

• The holiday puts extra drivers on the road; stay alert while driving.
• Watch out for impaired drivers on the road. Drive sober, and make someone you know doesn’t drive under the influence.
• If something doesn’t seem right on the road, call 911 and report it.