Fourth of July on Cape Cod: Summer Safety Tips

(PHOTO CREDIT atur84/freedigitalphoto)

As the Fourth of July comes into view on our calendars, we start to think about summer barbeques, beach days along the National Seashore, and Falmouth fireworks. What’s better than all three wrapped up into one day? While we take time this Fourth of July to celebrate with family and friends, remember to stay safe so the fun doesn’t have to end.

Here are some summer safety tips to help keep you and your family safe:

Heat Safety

Watch the forecast and plan activities accordingly. (Don’t take grandma to the beach on a 90° day)
Drink lots of fluids
Stay in the shade
Rest frequently
Watch for the following symptoms of heat-related illnesses:

Muscle cramps and spasms
Heavy sweating
Weakness
Pale and clammy/cool skin
Weak pulse
Dizziness
Nausea and vomiting
Fainting

If you experience these symptoms move to a cooler area, or air conditioned area, and seek medical attention.

Pool Safety

Ensure your pool, hot tub, etc., is fenced in with no breaks, and with a gate with a working latch.
Never leave a child unattended in a pool or hot tub area.
In large groups or at parties, rotate “lifeguard” duties, so that one person is always monitoring the pool. Sometimes in large groups the tendency is to think someone else is paying attention, this will ensure that someone actually is.
Keep children away from pipes and drains, make sure all covers to filters and drains are in place to avoid children being entrapped.
Designate an emergency phone to keep close to the pool/hot tub.
If a child is missing, look in the pool or hot tub first.
Learn how to swim and make sure your children learn early. Keep up your skills and gauge the skills of others in the pool.
Take a CPR/First Aid class.

 

Fireworks Safety

Never allow children to handle or light fireworks.
Only use legal fireworks, never try to make your own.
Only light fireworks outside, in a designated area that is away from others.
Have a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, and hose nearby.
Do not hold fireworks while you light them.
Wear eye protection while lighting fireworks.
Never relight a dud firework.
Do not allow children to pick up pieces of fireworks after they have gone off, as they could still be ignited or be hot enough to cause burns.
Soak all fireworks before disposing of them.
Keep pets indoors and safe. Fireworks scare many animals and can cause them to bolt.

Happy Fourth of July and stay safe my Cape friends!