The 4th of July means patriotism, cookouts and fireworks. You can handle patriotism with the best of them, but a few precautions will help keep you safe around the grill and fireworks.

Family cookouts are fun but they can also be dangerous. Thousands of people are treated for grill related injuries every year. Remember these safety precautions:

  • Keep children and pets away. Establish a 3-foot “Kid Free Zone” around your grill.
  • Use your grill outdoors only. Keep it away from your home, deck furniture and overhanging branches that might catch fire.
  • Remove grease or fat from the grill tray so it does not flame up.
  • Never leave the grill unattended.
  • Grilling and drinking alcohol don’t mix.

The 4th of July also means fireworks. But sparklers and other fireworks can cause serious injuries. Here are 5 tips for fireworks safety:

  • Sparklers cause most fireworks injuries. They burn at high temperatures and can cause severe burns. Do not let small children handle sparklers and dispose of burned out sparklers in a bucket of water.
  • Stay away from ground based “sparkler” devices. If one does not go off as expected, douse the device with water before approaching.
  • Distance is important at public fireworks displays. Do not get too close to the launch site in case something goes wrong.
  • Do not pick up fireworks debris at these displays.
  • Just like drinking and driving, fireworks and alcohol do not mix.

While we never plan for injuries, for your convenience, all Patient First neighborhood medical centers are open every day including holidays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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