Tips to Help You Have a Safe 4th of July

The 4^th of July is just around the corner and the American Red Cross offers these tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe during the upcoming holiday:

FIREWORKS SAFETY The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Many states outlaw most fireworks, so consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string instead. If you choose to set 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.

• 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.

• Never use fireworks around pets, keep pets indoors. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma, and many pets are also fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared or disoriented.

HEAT SAFETY No matter where you live, there’s a good chance you’ll experience a hot 4^th of July. The Weather Channel reports that this summer parts of the U.S. could see record-setting heat. According to the Associated Press, the climate crisis is causing heat waves to happen 67% more often compared to 1979, and last longer with higher temperatures than we experienced 40 years ago.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.

• Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.

• Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or public cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.

TAKE A CLASS Emergencies can happen no matter where you are — at home, at work, at the grocery store or at your local pool. If you are trained in First Aid, you have the ability to respond when minutes matter. While it may be something as simple as caring for cuts and scrapes, it can also be a lifesaving tool that keeps someone alive until help arrives.

You will know what to do in specific emergencies and help care for people as they wait for medical professionals to arrive. Your being able to help right away gives that person the best chance for a positive outcome — and gives you the opportunity to change someone's life for the better. Sign up today for Red Cross First Aid training. Find out more here.

You can also download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed. The First Aid app puts expert advice for common emergencies at your fingertips in both English or Spanish. Find all Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.