From barbecues and pool parties to fireworks and frozen treats, the 4th of July is a fun holiday for the whole family. It’s a sign of summer’s arrival and can be especially exciting for little ones who can’t get enough of the colorful explosions in the sky. While the 4th is usually all fun and games, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of certain safety measures. Here’s a comprehensive list of safety tips for families getting ready to celebrate the holiday.
Pool safety
When your kids are swimming in any body of water, it’s crucial that you stay alert and vigilant at all times. It’s easy to get distracted when you’re hosting a party or at someone else’s house for a barbecue, but unfortunately, this is when pool-related accidents are the most common. You can make sure the kids are safe and everyone is having a good time by hiring a lifeguard or having parents take turns watching the pool.
Sunscreen
Many families choose to spend July 4th outdoors, so sunscreen should always be readily available. Sunscreen with at least SPF 15 should be reapplied every two hours, or after a child has been swimming or sweating. Also, it’s best to keep younger infants in the shade and out of the sun.
Grill safety
Grilling outside is one of the many joys of summer and it’s become a classic Fourth of July tradition over the years. After all, it wouldn’t be America’s birthday without burgers and hotdogs. Because grills can get extremely hot, they should be attended by an adult at all times and kids should be kept no less than three feet away from it during and immediately after use.
Food and alcohol
It’s easy to forget about food that’s been sitting outside, or that beer that you left on a table right next to the pool. When kids are hungry or curious, they probably won’t think twice about what they’re putting in their mouth. Children can get sick from expired food and alcoholic beverages, so parents should be conscious about keeping food fresh and alcohol out of reach. All food should be refrigerated after one hour if the temperature is above 90F.
Fireworks safety
Every 4th of July there are plenty of fireworks-related injuries. Usually they involve adults mishandling explosives, but that doesn’t mean kids aren’t vulnerable. Fireworks are illegal in many states and yet, people typically find a way to get their hands on them in time for the holiday. Parents should keep kids as far away as possible from fireworks at all times. Even sparklers can be dangerous, so make sure you are assisting young ones in handling them properly.
Crowds
There’s nothing better than celebrating the 4th by watching a beautiful fireworks display with your community. Whether you’re taking your family to a park, pier, or picnic to see the show, remember to keep an eye on your kids. Fireworks are usually set off as soon as the sun sets, so there’s a good chance it’ll be dark, loud, and crowded. Kids are quick to wander off, so it’s best to stay in one place, set a designated meeting spot in case anyone gets lost, or just make sure your child is beside you the entire time.
Ear protection
If you’re planning on bringing the kids to catch the show, consider packing earplugs or over-ear headphones. As everyone knows, fireworks can be very loud. Not only can they startle and scare small children (and animals!), but they’re also capable of damaging their hearing.
July 4th is an exciting time of year for kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy beautiful weather, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy yummy food or outdoor activities. Follow these tips for a fun and safe holiday that you’ll remember for years to come! Be sure to let us know if you have anything else to add to our list in the comments.
