The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers several safety tips to assist in making sure you are safe while celebrating Independence Day. In fact, the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that on average, over 200 people will go to the emergency room every day with fireworks – related injuries in the month around the 4th of July. About 44% of these emergency room visits associated with Independence Day celebrations consist of burn related injuries.

As you prepare for your cookouts and celebrations, follow these tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to prevent serious injuries and fire hazards:

• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities and never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparklers alone account for one quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries. If you set off fireworks, keep a bucket of water handy in case of malfunction or fire.
• If fireworks malfunction, don’t relight them! Douse and soak them with water then throw them away.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially one that is glass or metal.
• Use your grill well away from your home and deck railings, and out from under branches or overhangs.
• Open your gas grill before lighting.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below your gas or propane grill so it cannot be ignited.
• Declare a three-foot “kid and pet-free zone” around the grill to keep them safe.
• Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire when cooking on the grill.

For additional information,
visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency website
or call the Spalding County Fire Department at 770-228-2129.