Around the country the weather tells us we are well into summer, and what happens in the heat of summer? That’s right, The 4th Of July! And it’s just around the corner. In preparation for the holiday, we put together some safety tips to keep you and your family safe this Independence Day.
Firework Safety Tips
Ah yes, the bang, the boom, and the “oohs and ahhs” mean fireworks. What Fourth of July get-together is complete without them? We know they make the day as special as anything, but we also know fireworks need to be handled with extreme care, locked away for safety and secured from wondering children until you’re ready to start the show. Here are some tips for keeping the fun safe:
Keep Fireworks, Homes, Doors and Windows Locked
- Children should never be allowed to use fireworks without adult supervision. Always keep fireworks locked away and out of reach from children until ready to use.
- Even if you are staying close to home and just heading down the street to enjoy the festivities at a neighbor’s or the neighborhood park, lock your doors and windows as if you are headed out for the day.
Proper Fireworks Handling
- Make sure you have a bucket or pail of water (and preferably a fire extinguisher) close by in case things go wrong.
- Never, ever, ever try to re-ignite a firework. If it fails to light, douse it with water and discard it properly.
- Never light more than one firework at a time, and move away from it as son as the fuse is lit.
Safety Tips for Attending Events
If you’re heading out to a large event, you’ll be sure to see an amazing fireworks show, but we know the number one priority is always safety. Keep these tips in mind if you’re going to be at a fireworks event:
Lock It Up
- Before heading out, make sure all doors and windows are locked and secured at home.
- Never leave your spare key under a potted plant or a rock (thieves know this trick). If you need to leave a spare key, leave it with a trusted neighbor and let them know where you will be, how long you will be gone and contact information just in case.
- You may want to leave a car in the driveway instead of in the garage to leave the impression that someone is at home. If you do, make sure your car is locked and the garage door opener is removed.
Family Back-Up Safety Plans
- Plan to wear a unique color as a family. You and your kids will be easier to spot should you get separated.
- Make sure your kids have your phone number in case they need to contact you. An ID bracelet is a great idea, and they are an inexpensive resource to ensure they can get a hold of you when needed and pick a time and a visible place to meet should you split up, or get separated.
- Make sure you and your kids know where the emergency services tent is when you get to your destination. When all else fails, make sure your kids know it’s where they need to head if they get separated.
Water Safety Tips for the Family
We may not all be headed to the beach this holiday, but if you’re heading to the water by way of your favorite lake, river, or community pool, keep in mind these safety tips for a fun-filled, worry-free time:
Lock Up Cars and Car Keys
- Make sure you lock the car doors and roll up the windows, which often get forgotten in the midst of coordinating gear, family and friends.
- If you’re going to be on the water, it’s a good idea to put your car keys on a ring with a small flotation fob, just in case they take a dive overboard.
Keep the Kids Safe
- If a boat, canoe, Jet Ski or tubing is in the plans, make sure the kids have adequate flotation devices.
- Don’t ever let the kids swim alone or out of sight.
- If the water is shallow, make sure you and the kids go in feet-first to avoid any accidents.
Designate a Driver and Protect Mobile Phones
- Make sure you have a designated driver for boats or other motorized watercraft. As always; drinking and driving of any kind don’t mix.
- Protect your phone in a watertight case, just in case you need it.
Safe Sun and Sand Protection
The temperature is rising and we may need to work on the tan a bit. Remember these tips when heading out this holiday with plans to grab some rays:
Hide Keys
- If you’re at a beach or an outdoor event and can’t keep your keys on you, place them in a sealed sandwich bag inside the cooler. They will stay safe and won’t end up buried in the sand.
Sun Protection and Hydration
- Make sure and try to limit your exposure to the sun between 10am-4pm.
- Sunscreen is the rule! Use at least 30spf (and stronger for kids) and apply it frequently. If you’re headed to the water, make sure the sunscreen is waterproof.
- Stay hydrated! Exposure to the sun accelerates dehydration. Make sure you’ve got plenty of water for the family, even if you’re headed to the water! If you see signs of heat stroke (fast, weak pulse, slow, suddenly slowed breathing, red skin and hotter than those around you) get help immediately, and get hydrated!
For more advice on staying safe this holiday, adding new lock fixtures, repairing an existing lock or security measures, call us 24-7 and speak to one of our professional, certified and bonded locksmiths about our services in the Denver metro and Front Range area. We are here to make your time with family, friends and community safe, secure and worry-free, whether it’s at your home, business, auto or emergency situation: 303-974-0215.
