By Staff
Independence Day is one of red, white and blue shirts, barbeques and fireworks.
Unfortunately it can also be a time of too much drinking and car accidents and children and adults burned or hurt from improperly used fireworks. Pets too can suffer from the unusual loud noises and can run away.
Using some common sense, most of these potential tragedies can be avoided.
The first is simple. Drink in moderation and don't drive after drinking.
The second takes a bit more work. To prevent firework accidents, always remember fireworks are made of explosive material. Would you give your children a bomb to hold?
Adults should be the one to light any fireworks and make sure everyone is at a safe distance away.
Don't use old fireworks which may have become compromised. Buy from a reliable seller and have a water bucket handy.
Stay away from illegal fireworks for your own safety.
If one won't go off, don't keep trying to relight it.
As far as your pets, understand loud noises, the lights and smells can cause your pet to panic and want to escape this threat.
Keep you animals at home when you go to see the fireworks show.
Also, keep you pets inside and keep the house closed up, even closing curtains to block the lights.
A safe Fourth of July is much more fun than sitting in an emergency room. Have fun, but be safe.