As you prepare for your July 4th celebrations and other outdoor activities, make sure your summer season is safe as well as happy. We’ve listed a few things to consider below.
- Picnic/Party Prep: When operating lawn mowers, weed wackers, and other power tools, make sure you wear the proper eye, foot, and skin protection. Anything moving can pinch, crush, or cut you! Burns can occur if you come in contact with the hot parts of gas-powered equipment, including the engine or exhaust pipes.
- Backyard Bonfires: Whether you use a fire pit, chiminea, or outdoor fireplace, make sure you use a screen whenever possible, wet the ground near the fire in case embers fall, and ensure you have a way to extinguish the fire when you’re done and in case it spreads. Never leave a fire burning unattended. Prior to lighting that match, check the weather for wind advisories and confirm there are no bans in your area. In times of high winds and/or drought, local authorities may prohibit having open fires to limit the chances of starting wildfires.
- Fireworks: While the safest way to see fireworks would be to watch them online or on TV, going to watch a professional display is the next best option. However, if it’s legal to buy and use consumer fireworks where you live and you choose to put on your own show, the National Safety Council (NSC) has several safety recommendations you should follow including, but not limited to:
- Never allow children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers are dangerous. They burn at roughly 2,000 degrees and can quickly burn skin and ignite clothing. Consider giving kids glow sticks or balloons, LED foam batons, or light wands instead.
- Only use fireworks away from people, buildings/houses, and combustible materials. Maintain a safe distance after lighting them.
- Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands or try to relight malfunctioning fireworks.
- Have a full bucket nearby to soak unused and spent fireworks in water for several hours prior to discarding.
- Increasing Temperatures: As the days get hotter, make sure to check in on the vulnerable, stay hydrated, and know the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses. For more information, check out our Beat the Heat: What Employers and Workers Need to Know About Heat Illness blog.
Wishing you a safe, healthy, and happy Independence Day and summer!
This blog was written by Kim E. Folger, Safety Partners’ Senior Training and Development Manager.
