Summer Safety Tips to Keep the Party Going!

Swimming, grilling, driving, and fireworks are the staples of a good summer party, but they also contribute to the 45,000 patients emergency rooms see every 4th of July.

Don’t let your summer cookout end in a trip to the hospital by following these tips to protect the vibe – and your insurance premiums:

Don’t light fireworks near dry foliage:

A single spark is all it takes for a patch of dry grass to turn into a wildfire. If you’re lighting fireworks, never light near flammable material, and always keep an extinguisher on hand when lighting up the night.

Practice water safety:

Small children near water should be equipped with flotation devices and should always be under the supervision of an adult. Don’t run on wet surfaces, and always look before you dive! If you’re in open water like a lake, be aware of riptides and stay clear of aquatic vehicles.

Don’t let friends drive drunk:

Drink responsibly, and if you see someone behaving irresponsibly, call an Uber or offer them a ride. Make sure guests have a designated driver, a safe means of getting home, or a place to stay.

Don’t point or throw fireworks at someone or something:

As fun as it is to pretend it’s a magic wand, you could easily throw a fireball at an unsuspecting victim. Make sure all fireworks are pointed upwards or out over a body of water. NEVER point fireworks at a person, structure, or at flammable material.

Douse fireworks before discarding:

Take the ‘fire’ out of fireworks and douse your sparklers before throwing them away. It may not look like it, but burnt-out fireworks can re-light and set ablaze trash cans. Prevent this dumpster fire in the making pouring water over the previously lit areas before discarding.

Safe grilling:

Don’t be a statistic, clean your grill! Grease buildup can start a fire that’s hard to put out. If you have a gas grill, check for leaks before you start bringing out the matches. Don’t leave grills unattended and keep children at least three feet away from grills.

Nothing derails a casual get-together like filing an insurance claim! Don’t spoil what could be cherished memories with raised premiums. Follow these tips for stress-free fun with family and friends. Enjoy the season safely!

Sources:

Pew Research Center