Bells are ringing. It’s July 1776, just weeks after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The 13 colonies have just severed ties with Britain, and the young nation now walks like a child into freedom. Each signature on the Declaration represents an individual, an individual who played an integral role in the birth of our nation. These leaders rejected an oppressive government and created their own.
This is our history. Over 240 years later, we live under the same government. Our leaders, representatives, and citizens have evolved. Some for the better and some for worse, but we have the inheritance of freedom. Many of us were born free. That’s why we celebrate.[1]
Now, it’s time for you to celebrate! We want you to have a great and safe Independence Day, so please check out the tips below!
- Read labels and research firework safety before use
- Do not allow children to set off fireworks
- Light one at a time and back away
- Protect your eyes, wear safety glasses
- Keep a water hose nearby
- Don’t try to re-light a “dud” – allow 5-20 minutes and then put it in water
- Shoot off fireworks in an open area
- Do not consume alcohol while setting off fireworks
- Hose down used fireworks and dispose in a metal trash can, avoid flammable materials
- Consider your pets and their acute hearing, don’t bring them to displays
- Don’t allow children to use sparklers, and supervise teens while they are in use. Sparklers account for many firework related burns and injuries.
- Feel unsure? Just visit a professional firework show
- Know the risks: Check out the infographic from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
These tips have been adapted from The National Council on Fireworks Safety, Fireworks Safety.Org.
