Maria Robinson
The 4th of July is quickly approaching, and as you spend your holiday weekend enjoying the outdoors, watching fireworks, and celebrating the good ‘ol US of A, be sure you also take the time to stay safe. Here are our tips for getting the most out of Independence Day, while making sure you come out unscathed.
Photo courtesy Nicholas Wray
Heat
Have you seen the weather reports? If you’ve taken a peek, then you know that temperatures are supposed to hover around the 100-degree mark all weekend long. Yikes! Try these tips for beating the heat:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water – drink water even if you aren’t thirsty
- Wear a hat and light-colored clothing
- Find some shade
- Check on friends, family, and neighbors who may not have AC
- Make sure your pets get plenty of water and shade
During heat waves, people are susceptible to 3 heat-related illnesses:
- Heat cramps: muscular pains and spasms in the abdomen or legs – this is often an early warning sign that your body is having trouble with the heat.
- Heat exhaustion: signs include cool, moist, pale, ashen, or flushed skin; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion.
- Heat stroke: this life-threatening condition is characterized by extremely high body temperature; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; confusion; vomiting; and seizures.
Learn more about beating the heat and what to do if someone is experiencing a heat-related illness at the City of Sacramento Fire Department’s site.
Water
With two beautiful rivers, Sacramento is a mecca for boating, skiing, and playing in the water. However, we sadly hear about multiple drownings each year. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe by practicing these water safety tips from Sacramento County Regional Parks:
- Wear a life jacket – it’s the law if you’re under 13
- Learn how to swim
- Stay out of deep water
- Watch out for hazards
- Obey the signs
- Alcohol and water sports don’t mix
- Keep an eye on kids
Read more tips and to learn how you can borrow life vests for kids – because Kids Don’t Float!
Photo courtesy of Felipe @The_Lost_Coast
Fireworks
It’s not the 4th of July unless fireworks are involved – I mean, they’re synonymous with celebrating Independence Day! As beautiful and as fun as they are, fireworks can also be dangerous, causing serious burns and injuries. A simple sparkler burns at about 2000 degrees – ouch! Stay safe and sane by keeping the following tips in mind:
- Never allow young kids to light fireworks
- Always make sure an adult is on-hand to supervise the celebration
- Never point or throw fireworks at someone
- Keep a bucket of water or hose handy
The City of Sacramento Fire Department has even more valuable fireworks safety tips, so be sure to read up before you light that wick.
Now all that’s left is to grill up some hotdogs, cut up some watermelon, and enjoy a three-day weekend.
