Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July

By Paul Bertling | June 28, 2022 |

Kids splashing in the water, hotdogs sizzling on the grill, fireworks booming, and the “oohs and aahs” of the crowd as they watch the display – all wonderful sounds of the Fourth of July.

In preparation for the holiday weekend, your friends at THINKlimo would like to provide some safety tips to remember during the Independence Day celebrations.

Grill Tips:

Never leave a lit or hot grill unattended.
Designate a “grill master” to assure children and pets stay away from the flames or hot grill.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Do not use a grill under porches/overhangs or too close to any structure
Cover food to protect it from insects outdoors.

Outdoor Adventures:

Apply and reapply bug spray and sunscreen.
Prepare for the weather and avoid being outdoors during high heat indexes or storms.
Wear the correct protective apparel for the activity, such as bicycle helmets, hats, sunglasses, appropriate footwear, and life vests.
Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Never leave children alone or unattended while near a pool or open body of water; always have a responsible adult as the “designated water watcher”.
Always wear life vests when boating and jet skiing.
Children and inexperienced swimmers should wear life vests while around pools, rivers, lakes, or other open bodies of water.
Teach children basic water safety tips.
Use caution around bonfires, fire pits, or sparklers.
Test the temperature of playground equipment before children play on it.

Firework Fun:

First and foremost, obey the state and local laws/ordinances as it relates to approved fireworks.
Read the safety and performance descriptions before igniting fireworks
Assign a responsible adult to supervise all firework activities; do not give fireworks to children.
Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
Use fireworks outdoors and away from structures and vehicles.
Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
Pets and fireworks don’t mix: – Do not bring pets to watch fireworks; most of them won’t enjoy it. If fireworks are used near your home, bring pets inside to a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sounds, which may scare them.

Travel Tips:

Prep your home before you leave town:
- Avoid posting on social media that you will not be home or where you’re going.
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Make sure potential fire hazards are secured appropriately – grills, electronics, lamps, etc.
- Stop or hold all your mail, deliveries, and newspaper or request a neighbor/relative to pick it up for you.
Buckle up – the driver and all passengers should wear seatbelts, day and night, regardless of location in the vehicle; children should be properly secured in a car safety seat. “Click it or Ticket”.
Pack a first aid kit in the car in the event of an emergency.
Obey traffic laws and use extra caution on the road as there will be an excess of motorists and pedestrians.
Give full attention to driving: do not drive while intoxicated, texting, posting to social media, taking pictures, or otherwise distracted.
Consider hitching a ride with THINKlimo. We can accommodate up to 55 family and friends, and assure a safe trip, no matter where you’re going.

The 4th of July is always a great time to celebrate with family and friends. We hope you have a fun and safe holiday weekend.