Safety Tips For Independence Day!

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Can you believe that Independence Day is tomorrow!? Many people have  the day off and usually plan a special day out with the family! Those plans may include going to the beach, attending fireworks, relaxing with friends and family or firing up the barbecue!

No matter what your plans are for July 4^th, The American Red Cross wants everyone to have an enjoyable yet safe Fourth of July! They have issued a few simple steps that can insure you and your family stays safe this festive holiday!

Beach Safety: If you’re planning on attending the beach tomorrow, be sure to check the weather and water conditions before you leave and throughout the day. Also, only swim in designated areas and where lifeguards are present at ALL times. Also, watch the sun! You should limit the amount of time you spend in the direct sunlight between 10-4. Drink a lot of water and avoid caffeine and all alcoholic beverages while being in the sun. Make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses!

Other tips:

Actively supervise children at all times - even if a lifeguard is present. Stay within arm's reach of young children when they are in the water.

Have weak swimmers wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Don't rely on water wings or inflatable toys.

Always enter shallow water feet first. Dive only in areas marked safe for diving.

Rip Currents: Be aware of the danger of rip currents at all times!

Other tips:

If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until out of the current. Once free, turn and swim toward shore.

If someone can't swim to the shore, they should shout for help, float or tread water until free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist near these structures.

Fireworks Safety: With every 4^th of July celebration come fireworks! Here are some tips to follow to stay safe.

Never give fireworks to small children and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.

Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.

Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."

Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

Never throw or point fireworks toward people, animals,

Grilling Safety: If you’re planning on heating up the BBQ tomorrow, be sure to follow these tips!

Always watch the barbecue grill when in use.

Never grill indoors - not in a house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.

Make sure children and pets stay away from the grill.

Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.

Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.

Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using grills.

Have you ever followed any of these tips before? Do you have any additional tips on ways to stay safe this Independence Day? Let us know on our Facebook page linked HERE!