If you live in the Northeast, you’ve spent June pining for sunshine, waiting for just one day that feels like summer. With the 4th of July fast approaching, Americans all over have high hopes for a gorgeous summer day of barbequing, swimming and fireworks. And let’s face it- it’s not going to take too much to feel like a holiday this year- most of us will probably be pleased with a little time spent out of the office, just getting some sun.   If you are lucky enough to celebrate our day of Independence with sunshine, you may feel tempted to overdo the summer enthusiasm. What exactly would that entail? Oh, reckless enjoyment of the first good weather all season. Before you find yourself saying, Who needs sunscreen, it’s been cloudy?, brush up on our summer safety tips. Now your family can enjoy the fourth of July without the aftermath of sunburn or fireworks mishaps.  

Swimming: Keep your family above water, and hydrated too.   Going to the pool or beach might just be the quintessential summer activity, but with it comes risks often overlooked.

• Stay hydrated! Just because you’re in the water, doesn’t mean there’s water in you. Remind your kids to take plenty of drink breaks.  
• Supervise children at all times. If they are weak swimmers, stay within arm’s length.  
• Don’t forget about sunscreen! Reapply on your kids between swims, and use at least spf 30. 

Grilling: Add safety to your list of entrées

• Keep children at least three feet away from the grill, and supervise the grill at all times  
• Use gas and charcoal grills outside only, and make sure it’s away from branches, the house, and deck railings  
• Never add charcoal starter fluid when the coals are already ignited.

  Fireworks: Prepare if you must pop!

• Always have an adult light the fireworks and sparklers. Keep them away from children, and make sure your audience is set back from the lighting area.  
• Keep pets indoors: their hearing is sensitive, and fireworks can cause stress and unusual/aggressive behavior.
• Protect yourself: wear goggles or eye-guards when lighting, and ear plugs. Keep a bucket of water for emergencies, and for soaking used fireworks— they can still be explosive!  
• Make sure you know what you’re doing. Read the directions, don’t light with any part of your body over the firework, and always point in a safe direction (not at people, houses, etc).

 For more safety tips, go to the American Red Cross  Happy 4th! Enjoy the weekend, and be safe.