Fourth of July Safety Tips

Last year, my husband and I spent the night of the Fourth of July in the ER and 5th of July in the Burn Center (a story for another day - but hint: see the sparkler tips below). While this does not make us experts, the stories and people - including kids - I saw in there were enough to emphasize the importance of safety this Fourth of July, especially when little ones are involved.

My family is from Nebraska, where full streets are shut down and full of smoke for weeks before the actual holiday. I love the smell of fireworks and memories surrounding Independence Day. By no means do I want to give fireworks up - ever. So here are a couple of safety tips and reminders to have a safe holiday without compromising the fun.

1. Water, sunscreen, and bug spray: let's start with the basics. Saturday is going to be a long, hot day (in most places). My favorite sunscreen & favorite non-deet bug spray.

2. A responsible adult should supervise ALL fireworks activities. This means someone who hasn't had too many beers ;)

3. Buckets of water: have a coupe of buckets of water ready to dispose dud fireworks (never relight a dud firework!) and used sparklers.

4. Sparklers! Sparklers are the leading cause of all firework-related injuries. Sparkler holders should be standing (never sitting or kneeling) 6 feet apart. Light ONE sparkler at a time in the holder's hand - do not pass the sparklers. Although tempting, they really shouldn't be waved around. Dispose sparklers in a bucket of water. Safe alternatives for young kids: glow sticks, confetti poppers, & colorful streamers.

Have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July! Enjoy these Independence Day throw backs.