4th of July Safety Tips

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Citrus Heights/Roseville and Carmichael wishes you a safe and happy Independence Day!

The 4th of July is undoubtedly a day of festivity across the country. Irrespective of your state, two activities are synonymous with Independence Day celebrations. Fireworks and Cookouts. Lighthearted and fun, these two activities are filled with hidden dangers. 

Fireworks

The National Fire Prevention Agency (N.F.P.A.) and the U.S. Hospital Emergency Rooms report thousands of fires, burns, injuries, and even a few deaths associated with fireworks. A cool wind, the heat, dry combustible materials, and flying sparks can combine to start a fire quicker than a blink of an eye. And being in a festive mood, it is easy to dismiss the glow of a burning material as another firework is going off. Considering that children and teens are often the victims, it is a sign of responsibility to be aware of the dangers.

Fireworks are not the only issue in fires breaking out on holiday. Celebrating the 4th with an outdoor cookout is a long American tradition. Considering that 7 out of 10 U.S. adult possess either a grill or a smoker, it is easy to be lax about safety as it is an activity one is familiar with. 

Safety Tips

The tips below are not exhaustive. They serve as a starter pack for you to keep both yourself and your family safe during this celebration.

• Check the Fire Danger Index for your local area.
• Be careful if a drought has been recorded in your area.
• Keep a water hose or a bucket nearby
• Have a fire extinguisher handy. Remember P.A.S.S. – Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep – when operating it. 
• Be aware that grease and fat buildup on grill grates are prime fuel for fires.
• Don't grill under overhangs, including railings or trees.
• Keep children, pets, and materials at least 3 feet away from grills. 17% of grill fires often involved items being dangerously close to the grill.
• Never leave the grill unattended.

These tips should help to keep your family safe. SERVPRO of Citrus Heights/Roseville and Carmichael wishes you a safe and happy Independence Day!