4th of July Safety Tips for Kids
Before you fire up the grill, light up a sparkler, launch a firework, or settle in to watch your hometown’s Independence Day parade, make sure you talk to your children about 4th of July safety tips before they go out for celebrations.
Fireworks and Sparklers
Being safe around fireworks is critical for both kids and adults, as the risk of injury is greatest for teenagers and young children.
- Always light fireworks away from other people because they can backfire or launch in an unexpected direction
- Never light fireworks toward homes and keep them away from brush and leaves
- Do not try to relight a defective firework
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in a trashcan
Grilling Safety Tips
Create a child free zone while you grill. Children should know only adults are allowed to use the grill and they are not allowed near when it is on. Grilling is a tasty treat for the whole family, but it gets very hot and smoky. Be sure to check the grill’s tubes and burners for blockages from grease, cracking, holes or leaks. Never use a damaged grill.
Designate a Meeting Spot at Crowded Events
Crowded events such as parades and fireworks gatherings can increase the risk of your child becoming separated from the family. It is best to predetermine a meeting place for both you and your child, so both of you know what to do in this situation.
Bonfire Safety Tips
Bonfires are a fun activity in places without overhanging tree limbs, dry grass or power lines. To keep it safe, arrange chairs at a safe distance away from the fire and do not sit directly in front of the fire’s smoke. Adults and children should not throw objects into the flames as this can cause them to pop up from the heat or release chemicals into the air.
Your family’s favorite bonfire activity may be making s’mores as a tasty treat. If so, make sure you tell your child to never shake a burning marshmallow because it can fall off the stick and go toward someone else around the fire.
Don’t Forget Your Summer Basics
Because it can be such a busy day, don’t forget your usual summer safety protocols. This means lathering on sun screen before going to the town parade and bringing along water bottles for the whole family. If your child is swimming, you should exercise the same precautions as you would any other day during the summer. Read more about summer safety here.