TIPS FOR A SAFE FOURTH OF JULY
The Fourth of July brings us fireworks bursting in the sky, beautiful
weather, and family and friends having festive picnic celebrations. Independence
Day, with its aquatic fun and brilliant aerial pyrotechnics, is often the most
memorable day of the summer. However, as Sheriff Lee Baca said, "Unfortunately,
the activities that make this holiday unique also make it one of the busiest
days of the year for public safety personnel."
Every Fourth of July, hospital emergency rooms are filled with people injured
in accidents involving fireworks, swimming pools or alcohol. With the excitement
that accompanies the holiday, safety practices followed throughout the year
are often forgotten. In many cases, these accidents can be avoided by using
common sense and acting in a responsible manner. The following safety tips can
help contribute to a safe and pleasurable holiday.
This year’s continuing drought conditions have increased the amount of
dry brush and caused an extraordinarily high fire hazard. Extreme caution should
be used if you choose to include fireworks in your celebration. Check local
ordinances if you are planning on having your own fireworks display this year.
If fireworks are permitted in your community, display them in an open area and
only use fireworks authorized by the State Fire Marshal. Also, wear closed-toe
shoes to avoid stepping on hot debris. Have a bucket of water nearby so that
burning embers can be quickly extinguished. Supervise young children at all
times, remembering that parents can be held liable for any damage caused by
their kids. Remember that the old adage, "what goes up, must come down"
applies to Independence Day activities. With that in mind, remember that firearms
should never be confused with fireworks and that shooting a gun into the air
is not only dangerous, it is also a crime. Sheriff Baca reminds us that "Discharging
a firearm into the air is a serious safety hazard that can result in injury
or death to an innocent bystander."
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department realizes that the Fourth of July
is a celebration of freedom. Sheriff Baca points out, "To enjoy and celebrate
the privileges of freedom, we all must share in the responsibilities that accompany
it." Keep these safety tips in mind and pass them on to a friend so that
we can all enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July.
SHB-49A-02
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June 27, 2002