July 4th can often mean the official start of summer: kids are out of school, fireworks are every night, BBQs throughout weekend, and pools and beaches are open for business. So, we’ve put together the top tips to keep families happy, healthy, and safe during July 4th festivities and beyond.
Be Careful with Fireworks
Fireworks are part of Independence Day. And just because everyone wants to set them off, doesn’t mean everyone should. Lighting and igniting fireworks should be handled by experienced adults. There should always be adult supervision in the event of fireworks, even sparklers, which can cause burns and other injuries when used improperly.
After setting up a firework, make sure everyone has backed up to a safe distance. Do not ever point them at any person or object, throw them, or place them on uneven surfaces. The type of fireworks that are legal to use recreationally vary by state, so review your state’s laws and regulations before creating a personal firework show.
Practice Proper Water Safety
During swimming, boating and kayaking, fishing, and other water adventures, water safety is important for both kids and adults. Kids should always be supervised by a responsible adult when in the water, and swimmers of all ages should be accompanied by a buddy when out in the water. It’s always safer to wear a life vest, even if you are an experienced swimmer.
At any beach with waves, dangerous rip currents can occur. Be prepared by knowing how to react when you encounter one, and follow this rip current survival guide put together by the United State Lifesaving Association.
Always know your limits, as beaches and open bodies of water are very different environments from the more familiar, contained pools. Take a break when you get tired, hungry, or are feeling dehydrated.
Stay Protected with Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Sunscreen and insect repellent are two items you don’t want to leave the house without wearing, especially in the summer. UV is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so be extra diligent about applying sunscreen. The American Cancer Society recommends wearing a product that is at least SPF 30.
For insect protection, know all of the possible dangers in the area. Mosquitos, ticks, and flies are the usual suspects, so it’s key to find an insect repellent that works against all of those. Picaridin products, like Ranger Ready Repellents, offer protection against mosquito and tick bites for 12 hours, and 8 hours of biting fly protection. Learn more about the benefits of picaridin here.
Staying protected all year is important, and essential during the summer. Lyme disease and other insect-borne illnesses are most often seen in the summer months (May – August), peaking in June and July.
When applying sunscreen and insect repellent pay extra close attention to any visible skin, including the low points of your body like legs for insect repellent, and the high points like ears and nose for sunscreen.
Sunscreen goes on first, and once it is dry apply the insect repellent. Sunscreens typically last two hours until they need to be reapplied and these applications can go on over the insect repellent. Reapply both of these products after swimming or sweating in excess to ensure optimal protection.
Stay Hydrated and Drink Safely
Running around in the heat increases the chances of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and heat stroke in both kids and adults. It’s most important to continuously drink water throughout the day, but if you’re feeling extra rundown an electrolyte drink can help.
Adults who enjoy alcoholic beverages during BBQs and celebrations can suffer from dehydration. Practice safe drinking methods when drinking outdoors in the heat, such as drinking sufficient water and eating enough food.
Drink smart this summer and make sure post-celebration plans are made, whether that is a designated driver, taxi, or ridesharing service that can get you home to rehydrate and rest.
Follow these tips to stay safe all summer long so your family can spend more time enjoying the beautiful weather and less time worrying about pests and injuries. If you need to stock up on insect repellent, Ranger Ready is the best insect and tick repellent for summer and beyond.
