Los Angeles, July 02, 2025— With the Fourth of July around the corner and summer temperatures already climbing, the American Red Cross urges everyone to stay safe during holiday celebrations and the hot weeks ahead.

Extreme heat can be dangerous—and even deadly—for anyone, anywhere. This summer is expected to bring high temperatures across much of the country, so it’s important to recognize the signs of heat-related illness and take steps to stay cool, hydrated and protected. As you plan your Independence Day activities, the Red Cross encourages you to prepare not just for fireworks and fun, but also for the heat.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY

• 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.

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.

BE READY WHEN EVERY SECOND COUNTS - Emergencies can happen anywhere—at home, at work, at the grocery store, or even by the neighborhood pool. When you’re trained in first aid, you can step in and make a difference when minutes matter most. Whether it’s treating minor cuts and scrapes or providing critical care until help arrives, first aid training gives you the confidence and skills to act.

You’ll learn how to respond in specific emergency situations and support someone in need until medical professionals take over. Your quick action can improve someone’s outcome—and may even save a life.

GET TRAINED. BE PREPARED. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Sign up for Red Cross First Aid training today at redcross.org.

And don’t forget to download the free Red Cross First Aid app. It puts expert guidance right at your fingertips—even if emergency help is delayed. Available in English and Spanish, the app covers common emergencies and is a great resource to have on hand. Find it by searching “American Red Cross” in your smartphone’s app store or visiting redcross.org/apps.

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 follow us on social media.