As millions of Americans gear up for their big 4th of July celebrations… Window Genie is here to remind you to celebrate responsibly & safely. Be prepared, be smart, and have fun!
Travel Safety
The Fourth of July is one of the most traveled holidays of the year, so it should be no surprise that this is at the top of our list. July 4th has had an average of 127 traffic deaths per year over the last decade. It is the deadliest holiday of the year.
- The basics should always be covered when traveling. Wear your seat belt. Don’t speed. And NO TEXTING AND DRIVING.
- Clean and repair your car’s lights, windows, wipers, and mirrors. You gotta be able to see!
- Routine maintenance is best to be done before your trip. Getting an oil change as well as topping off all essential fluids.
- Store extra water and snacks in your trunk. Traffic jams and other unforeseen problems may arise that could strand you and your family. Having extra water is always a good idea, especially on long trips with children.
- Never let your gas tank get below a fourth of a tank. Getting gas when it is available is a smart move. Making sure you have a gas can just in case is also a good idea.
Grilling Safety
What would your Fourth of July celebration be without some delicious food fresh off the grill? Not to be an alarmist, but according to the National Fire Protection Association 9,000 home fires are caused by grills every year and 16,600 patients go to the emergency room.
- First, check the gas cylinder hose for leaks. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose and look for any bubbling. If you see bubbles you leak.
- Never turn on the gas while the lid is closed. The gas may build up inside, and when ignited you will get more than you bargained for.
- If you are using a charcoal grill do not add lighter fluid to already kindled coals.
- Remember coals will remain hot for many hours after the flames are gone.
- When preparing the food be aware of cross contamination. Raw chicken and raw beef should be handled separately and with different utensils.
- It should go without saying, but please don’t grill indoors!
Firework Safety
The best part of any Fourth of July celebration is the fireworks. Everything from sparklers to Roman candles can be fun but can be seriously dangerous. Every year there is an average of 230 firework-related injuries.
- Just like grilling, please only set off fireworks outdoors.
- Even though it might be tempting, never buy second-hand fireworks. If a firework is wrapped in newspaper or a brown paper bag, it’s probably not safe.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Never aim a firework at anyone. Never light fireworks near trees, brush, or your home.
- Always light fireworks one at a time and never relight a dud. The majority of injuries occur when someone tries to relight a firework that didn’t fire.
- Keep a fire extinguisher, a bucket of water, or a garden hose handy. Obviously, the most dangerous part of fireworks is the potential of starting a fire.
- Finally, just use common sense. Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix well.
While that sounds like a great big list of warnings… don’t forget to have fun, eat some apple pie, and enjoy the fireworks with your friends and family. What are some of your favorite 4th of July traditions? Share below!
