I want to wish you a happy and enjoyable 4th of July. However, in order to have fun, it is important to stay safe.
Since the 4th of July falls on a Wednesday this year, fewer people will be able to take long road trips. But there will still be far too many crashes on on our DFW roads, especially with far too many people drinking while driving.
Here are a few tips to keep you from getting into a wreck in the Fort Worth and Dallas area:
1..Be extra cautious of other drivers. Always drive defensively.
2. Do NOT text and drive.
3. Do NOT dial numbers on your cell phone and drive.
4. Never drive if you are tired.
5. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained.
While outside, take these precautions:
1. Dress in lightweight clothing.
2. Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar because they can dehydrate your body.
3. Limit the time you’re in direct sunlight.
4. Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
5. Do outdoor activities in the cooler morning and evening hours
6. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF.
7. Be extremely cautious while grilling.
Using fireworks is obviously extremely dangerous. The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that there were an estimated 8,600 hospital injuries in 2010 and three reported deaths due to fireworks. These are some recommendations from the CPSC:
1. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
2. Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
3. Many don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
4. Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
5. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
6. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
7. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or mishap.
Hopefully, these tips will help everyone to have a happy and safe 4th of July.