10 Tips for a Fun and Safe

Patriotism and celebration go hand in hand on the 4^th of July. Grilling, parades, and fireworks combine for a festive day. Following these tips can help you enjoy the fun without disaster:

• Enjoy parades in groups and keep close watch on young children. Make sure children know what to do if they get lost.  
• Keep snacks, water, sunscreen, and bug spray handy.
• Be sure candy and trinkets thrown by parade floats are age appropriate and don't present choking hazards for children.
• Grill in open air areas, away from buildings and foliage.
• Keep a hose or bucket of water handy in case of mishap.
• Never use gasoline or kersene to light charcoal. Never add lighter fluid directly to hot coals.
• Cool a hot grill by closing the cover and vents, allowing the coals burn out completely.   Wait a standard of 48 hours before disposing of the ashes in a non-combustible container.
• Enjoy municiple fireworks shows. Firework- related injuries account for several hundred emergency room visits each year.
• Check your local ordinance regarding personal fireworks. Most SE Wisconsin communities have banned usage of all fireworks, including sparklers.
• Never shoot or point fireworks at another person.