
It will soon be time to celebrate Independence Day. What do your plans include? Are you going to the local fireworks display? Maybe you’re looking forward to some fun in the water. The American Red Cross wants you to enjoy a fun-packed, safe 4th of July and offers these tips you can follow 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, especially in dry climates prone to forest fires. Consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string instead. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:
WATER SAFETY Children and adults should learn to swim so they at least achieve the skills of water competency: be able to enter the water, get a breath, stay afloat, change position, swim a distance and get out of the water safely. Whether swimming in a pool, at the beach or visiting a waterpark, always swim in an area where lifeguards are on duty.
BEACH SAFETY If you plan to swim in the ocean, a lake or river, be aware that swimming in these environments is different than swimming in a pool. Be sure you have the skills for these environments.
WATER PARK SAFETY Wear protective clothing, including a hat and some kind of cover-up for when you’ve had enough sun. Use sunscreen before leaving home and reapply during the day.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
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