July 4th can be Hot but keep it safe!
It’s that time again… lot’s of outdoor fun filled with lots of sun, laughter, music, BBQ’s and of course Fireworks!
So what can you do to protect your family and yourself from becoming a victim of the 4th of July celebration?
Every year there are more than 50,000 fires are caused by fireworks. Take the proper precautions when operating fireworks.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. If someone is setting fireworks off at home, they should follow these safety steps:
Be sure fireworks are legal in your area before using or buying them.
Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities and never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparklers alone account for one quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.
If you set off fireworks, keep a bucket of water handy in case of malfunction or fire.
If fireworks malfunction, don’t relight them! Douse and soak them with water then throw them away.
Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially one that is glass or metal.
Use your grill well away from your home and deck railings, and out from under branches or overhangs.
Open your gas grill before lighting.
Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below your gas or propane grill so it cannot be ignited.
Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire when cooking on the grill.
Declare a three-foot "kid and pet-free zone" around the grill to keep them safe.
Besides Fireworks and Grilling the summer has some other concerns.
Heat
As Independence Day falls in the middle of the summer, the warm weather makes it an ideal holiday for picnics and barbeques, but the heat can pose serious hazards, especially to children and the elderly. Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are brought on by staying out in the sun too long, or spending too much time in an overheated place without keeping hydrated; and all that alcohol typically consumed on the Fourth of July doesn’t help. Signs of heatstroke include:
Rapid heartbeat
Rapid breathing
Elevated or lowered blood pressure
Cessation of sweating
Irritability, confusion, or unconsciousness
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Headache
Nausea
Fainting, which may be the first sign in older adults
If you notice someone is experiencing heatstroke, immediately move the person to a shady or air-conditioned space and call 911 for medical help. Cool the person by covering them with a damp towel or by spraying them with cool water, and if the person is able, have them drink cold water or another nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.
Drowning
Naturally, the extreme heat around the Fourth of July brings about plenty of pool parties, beach trips, or swimming in some other body of water, and each year, news outlets are brimming with Fourth of July drowning deaths. In 2015, there were over 155 drowning incidents reported involving children under the age of 15 during the holiday week, and in 2014, 124 incidents were reported during the same week.
The Center for Disease Control “Pool Safety” campaign to urge families to follow a few simple steps to avoid tragedy over the holiday:
Never leave a child unattended in a body of water
Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim
Learn CPR
Have appropriate equipment for your pool or spa, including lifesaving equipment such as life rings, floats, or a reaching pole
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers adds that life jackets should always be worn, even by responsible boaters and swimmers. Also, don’t drink and swim; nearly half of all drowning deaths are related to alcohol consumption.
Check your First Aid Kit
The 4th of July weekend and day is a great time for outdoor activities, but accidents happen. Is your first aid kit stocked and ready? Make sure your first aid kit includes adhesive bandages and dressings, antibiotic ointment, sterile gloves, scissors, tweezers, instant ice, anti histamine, tape, CPR mask, plastic bags, and burn ointment.
Get Trained
Do you know how to provide basic medical aid if needed? Sign-up for a first aid or CPR class at: www.cnasafety.com. Knowing how to provide even minimal medical aid during a disaster could make a critical difference in saving someone’s life.
With a little pro-active planning we all can have a Fun 4th of July celebration!
Stay Safe!
To be safe your best bet is to consult with an expert that will help you identify common problems and make suggestions for change before it's too late. C & A Safety Consultants has over 30 years experience in working with business, government agencies, schools, churches, youth groups, camps (day and sleep away).
C & A Safety Consultants are located in Southern California.
C & A Safety can be reached at:
CNASAFETY1@gmail.com or by telephone: 805-750-0915
