The 4th of July is a fun time to celebrate, but fireworks, hot summer weather, and excited pets can create risks. Safety comes first!
Here’s a guide to keep your Independence Day safe and enjoyable, with tips for using fireworks, caring for pets, and staying safe in the heat.
Fireworks Safety
Fireworks are a key part of Fourth of July celebrations, but they cause thousands of injuries each year. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 14,700 fireworks-related injuries treated in emergency rooms and 11 deaths in 2024. Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Leave It to Professionals: Attend public fireworks displays run by licensed experts rather than using consumer fireworks.
- Local fireworks will be displayed by the City of Sebastian on Friday, July 4, 2025, at 9:00 pm at the Twin Piers at Riverview Park.
- Barefoot Bay will be letting off its fireworks display on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 9:00 pm over the lake along Barefoot Boulevard.
- Follow Local Laws: Verify if fireworks are legal in your area. Many states and cities have strict regulations in place.
- Keep a Safe Distance: If using legal fireworks, maintain at least 35 feet for ground-based items and 150 feet for aerial ones. Never lean over fireworks when lighting them.
- Have Water Ready: Keep a bucket of water or a hose close by to extinguish duds or small fires. Soak used fireworks before disposal to prevent smoldering.
- Avoid Alcohol: Don’t handle fireworks while drinking. Alcohol-related accidents account for a significant number of injuries, per the National Fire Protection Association.
- Protect Kids: Never let children handle fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at over 2,000°F. Supervise closely and store fireworks out of reach.
Tip: Check with your local fire department for specific safety guidelines and free disposal programs for unused fireworks.
Pet Care During Loud Celebrations
Fireworks can scare pets with their loud booms and bright lights, causing stress or making them run away. The ASPCA says more pets get lost around July 4th. Here’s how to keep your pets safe:
- Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, enclosed area indoors with familiar bedding, toys, and water. A crate with calming music playing works well to drown out the fireworks noise.
- Update ID Tags and Microchips: Ensure your pet’s collar has current contact information, and their microchip data is up to date. This increases the chance of recovery if they escape.
- Keep Pets Indoors: Even calm pets can panic during fireworks. Keep them inside, with windows and doors closed, and avoid taking them to public displays.
- Exercise Early: Tire your pet out with a long walk or play session early in the day to reduce anxiety at night.
- Consult a Vet: For anxious pets, ask your veterinarian about calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or, in severe cases, medication.
Summer Heat Precautions
On July 4th, it often gets really hot, which can lead to heatstroke or dehydration. The CDC says heat-related illnesses are most common in summer. Here’s how to stay cool and safe:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, aiming for 8-12 ounces per hour in the heat. Avoid sugary drinks or alcohol, which can dehydrate you. For kids, offer electrolyte drinks sparingly during prolonged outdoor activities.
- Dress Smart: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every 2 hours.
- Take Breaks: If at a parade or festival, seek shade or air-conditioned areas regularly. Limit strenuous activities during peak heat (10 am – 4 pm).
- Watch for Warning Signs: Recognize symptoms of heat exhaustion—dizziness, nausea, headache, or heavy sweating. Move to a cool area, sip water, and rest. Call 911 for heatstroke symptoms like confusion or fainting.
- Protect Vulnerable Groups: Keep a special eye on children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions, who are more susceptible to the heat.
By prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the 4th of July with peace of mind. Have a fun and safe Independence Day!
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