How to stay safe this 4th of July

SPRINGFIELD, MO — Independence Day is coming soon and many people plan to attend fireworks displays, a backyard picnic, or just enjoy the outdoors. The American Red Cross wants you to enjoy a fun-packed, safe holiday and offers these tips you can follow over the upcoming holiday:

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

-Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
-Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
-Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
-Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
-Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
-Know your community’s fireworks restrictions on what types of fireworks can be set off in neighborhoods. Remember military members and others with PTSD, and pets also may be impacted by the noise of
fireworks.

They also offer advice when it comes to general public safety such as:

-Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
-Wash your hands before preparing the food.
-If you are going to grill, always supervise when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
-Never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
-Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.

This years 4th of July will be a hot one. The American Red Cross advices you:

– Remember hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.
-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
-Avoid extreme temperature changes.
-Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.