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LINCOLN — No matter how you celebrate Independence Day, be sure to stay safe with these safety tips from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but they can also be dangerous.
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 14,700 individuals were treated in hospital emergency departments for firework-related injuries in 2024.
If you are using fireworks, reduce your risk of serious burns or injury by following these safety tips.
Purchase all fireworks from reputable sellers.
Keep a fire extinguisher and a large bucket of water or a hose nearby.
Light one at a time and keep all flammable items away from children. This includes sparklers.
Never try to relight or handle fireworks that malfunction or do not go off.
Do not light fireworks in containers.
Do not point fireworks at people or launch them toward anyone.
When lighting a firework, do not stand directly over it. Back up immediately after it is lit.
After use, spray fireworks with water until soaked to avoid a fire hazard.
Other Fourth of July activities can also be dangerous.
Anyone planning an Independence Day barbecue should keep these grilling safety tips in mind to ensure a safe cookout.
Only use your grill outside and at least three feet away from siding, deck rails, and eaves.
Keep a three-foot safety zone around your grill. This will keep kids and pets safe.
Open your gas grill before lighting.
Keep raw meat or poultry packed separately and sealed. All perishables, including meat, poultry, and foods with mayo, eggs, or milk products, need to be chilled or on ice until ready to use.
Do not walk away from your grill, fire pit, or patio torches when they are lit.
Clean your grill after each use. This will remove grease that could start a fire.
Place the coals from your grill in a metal trash can with a lid once they have cooled.
Anyone planning to go swimming over the holday weekend should keep these tips in mind.
While water activities are a fun way to cool off, help prevent accidents by following these swimming safety tips.
Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
Never leave a young child unattended near water.
Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
Assign a “water watcher” to maintain constant supervision and avoid any distractions.
If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers.
Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, cell phone, life jackets, and a first aid kit.
Know how and when to call 911 or the local emergency number.
