Celebrate the 4th of July Safely

The 4th of July means parades, cookouts and fireworks. It is fun for everyone, but a few precautions will keep you safe around the grill and fireworks.

Family cookouts are a 4th of July tradition. Keep everyone safe when you put those burgers and hot dogs on the fire. Remember these precautions:

· Keep children and pets away. Establish a 3-foot “Kid Free Zone” around your grill.

· Use your grill outdoors only. Keep it away from your home, deck furniture and overhanging branches that might catch fire.

· Remove grease or fat from the grill tray so it does not flame up.

· Never leave the grill unattended.

· Grilling and drinking alcohol don’t mix.

4th of July fireworks are spectacular. However, they can cause injuries. Here are 5 tips for fireworks safety:

· Sparklers cause most fireworks injuries. They burn at high temperatures and can cause severe burns. Do not let small children handle sparklers and dispose of burned out sparklers in a bucket of water.

· Stay away from ground based “sparkler” devices. If one does not go off as expected, douse the device with water before approaching.

· Distance is important at public fireworks displays. Do not get too close to the launch site in case something goes wrong.

· Do not pick up fireworks debris at these displays.

· Just like drinking and driving, fireworks and alcohol do not mix.

All Patient First neighborhood medical centers are open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day of the year, including the 4th of July.