Updated: June 29, 2020
July 4th is a time for family gatherings, outdoor activities, fireworks, and celebration of our country’s birth. But these outdoor activities require the same amount of safety consciousness that we apply while working on the job site. Every year tens of thousands of people are hurt doing yard work to prepare for gatherings, grilling, driving, and using fireworks. Proper planning and attention is key to enjoying the holiday safely.
Yard Safety
While preparing your yard for the family bbq or just for summer fun, it is important to wear the proper safety equipment. Between 2015 and 2017, there were over 428,474 emergency room visits in the United States related to outdoor power equipment. Most could have been avoided if safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chaps, etc. were worn while doing yard work. When operating equipment make sure to read the manufacturer’s operating manuals prior to use for safe usage and warnings. Most importantly, do not mix alcohol with yard work; that is a recipe for a hospital trip.
Grilling
Grilling is a task that has the potential to be dangerous and requires attention. Here are some good BBQ practices
- Perform a thorough safety inspection before lighting the grill
- Never use a grill in an enclosed space. Only use an approved charcoal lighter fluid to start a charcoal-fired grill, and never add any flammable liquid to a burning fire
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for lighting gas grills
- Keep grills away from houses, fences, trees, and anything else that is flammable.
- Don’t wear loose clothes when cooking on a grill
- Make sure the fire is out when finished cooking
Learn more about how to prevent grill fires from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in their video shown below.
Fireworks
Fireworks are a staple for the 4th of July holiday, but fireworks are extremely dangerous. Prior to purchase or use of fireworks, be familiar with your state’s laws regarding them; it may be illegal for you to obtain and use fireworks. The American Pyrotechnics Association website outlines state regulations for fireworks, click here to view.
Fireworks really should be left for the licensed professionals. In 2017, eight people died from injuries, and over 12,000 were hospitalized. Fifty-percent of these injuries were children and young adults under the age of 20, many were using small firecrackers and sparklers. Not only do fireworks cause injury, but on average start 18,500 fires each year.
If you choose to celebrate with fireworks it is important to remember:
- Never allow children to use fireworks
- Sparklers can burn up to 2,000 degrees
- Do not hold lighted fireworks
- Do not light indoors
- Avoid wearing loose articles of clothing
- Avoid using fireworks around buildings
- Keep a supply of water near to extinguish flames
- NEVER mix alcohol with fireworks
Driving
If you are drinking and need to drive this July 4th, please remember to designate a driver who will stay sober. In 2019, 565 roadway deaths were predicted for Independence Day. Compared to other major holidays there are 39% more alcohol-impaired driver fatalities this time of year.
The 4th of July is a time for family, friends, and celebration. Please enjoy this time safely and responsibly. Do not drink and drive, designate a driver. We at Danella wish you a safe and happy 4th of July.
For more safety tips visit: https://www.danella.com/category/danella-news/safety/