TAMPA, Fla., (WFLA) — Independence Day is Friday, and it is important to celebrate responsibly.
Every year, fireworks lead to injuries and fires.
With many people having Fourth of July plans over the weekend, making sure everyone stays safe is critical.
From cookouts to fireworks, the Fourth is a time to celebrate, but those celebrations can quickly become disasters.
AAA sees a spike in home insurance claims from fires and other mishaps tied to Independence Day parties.
“Amid all the festivities, take a moment to ensure everything is arranged safely, and consider what your contingency plan would be if things don’t go as expected,” stated Mark Jenkins, spokesperson for AAA, The Auto Club Group.
Experts said safety needs to be a top concern, as many families break out the grill for cookouts.
AAA advises people to always supervise their grills, keep a fire extinguisher or water source close by, and position the grill at a safe distance from your house, children, and pets.
“It’s best to keep the flames on the food, not on the house. Keep in mind, July is peak month for grill-related fires,” Jenkins said.
Experts want to make sure people are keeping their pools safe and supervising young swimmers.
It is especially important to keep a close eye on the kids and take every safety precaution when setting off any fireworks.
“Ensure that any fireworks are kept away from your home, vehicles, trees, and people. Remember the animals; they aren’t fans of fireworks. Make sure your pets are in a secure room before the fireworks begin,” Jenkins added.
AAA tips for grilling:
- Supervise your grill at all times – never leave it unattended.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance to prevent accidents.
- Place the grill away from homes, decks, and trees to avoid fire hazards.
- Never grill indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Keep a fire extinguisher and water source handy for emergencies.
- Use long-handled tools to prevent burns and flare-ups.
AAA tips for fireworks:
- Keep a safe distance – fireworks should stay far away from homes, vehicles, and trees.
- Choose public fireworks displays – for a safer professional experience.
- Never allow children handle fireworks – sparklers burn hotter than blowtorches.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for quick fire suppression.
- Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
- Skip alcohol and impairing substances while handling fireworks
AAA also wants to remind people to make sure their food is cooked thoroughly, and that it is covered and stored safely. For more, click here.
