Metro Creative

We celebrate our nation’s founding in many ways when the Fourth of July rolls around every summer. Whether it’s grilling out or swimming, traditions seem to be universal across the board.

While we encourage everyone to take a break from the negativity that always seems to surround our daily lives and enjoy the fireworks and festivities, it’s important to be safe this holiday weekend.

On Friday, the Eagle reported that travel numbers are supposed to break records, with 50.7 million Americans expected to travel 50 miles or more over the next couple of days, according to AAA.

With all of the extra traffic, drive safely, and don’t drink and drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2017 to 2021, 1,460 drivers were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period — 38% of the drivers killed were drunk.

If you plan to drink, take an extra minute and make a plan ahead of time for a sober ride home.

Fireworks also can pose a threat without a little extra caution. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Administration website states that in 2021, there were an estimated 1,500 emergency department-treated injuries associated with firecrackers and 1,100 involving sparklers.

While filling the sky with fire is one of our favorite ways to celebrate our independence, following these safety tips from the Safety Administration can save a trip to the emergency room later:

– Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy, in case of fire or other mishap.

– Light fireworks one at a time, then move quickly away from the fireworks device.

– Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.

– Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

– Never point or throw fireworks at anyone.

– After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.

– Make sure fireworks are legal in your area, and only purchase and set off fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use.

– Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

We at the Butler Eagle wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July.

— CM