How to Stay Safe this 4th of July
For many people, the 4th of July is a time to get together with family, relax, and celebrate the birth of our country. Unfortunately, many 4th of July celebrations also expose people to an increased risk of injury. Below is some information that can help keep you safe this Independence Day while you are enjoying yourself with family and friends. In the unfortunate event that you are hurt in an accident this summer, call Bednarz Law immediately to schedule a free case evaluation with a Nashville personal injury attorney.
If You are Planning on Shooting off Fireworks, Practice Firework Safety
Fireworks are a traditional part of many people’s 4th of July celebrations. The National Safety Council recommends that people enjoy fireworks by attending displays conducted by professionals rather than shooting them off at home. If you plan to shoot off your own fireworks, make sure that it’s legal in your area and follow these safety tips:
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks
- Older kids should be supervised by adults when handling fireworks
- Never light fireworks after drinking alcohol
- Wear protective eyewear when using fireworks
- Never try to re-light a firework that malfunctioned
- Always point fireworks away from people, buildings, and flammable material
- Keep a bucket of water nearby when using fireworks
Stay on the Lookout for Drunk Drivers
4th of July celebrations often involve alcohol, which means that there are often more drunk drivers on the road around the holiday than there typically are. If you are out and about on the 4th or the night before, make sure to pay extra attention to your surroundings. Avoid driving in areas with a high concentration of bars and restaurants, and keep plenty of space between you and any drivers that are driving erratically. Some specific driving behaviors to be on the lookout for include:
- Weaving
- Driving significantly under the speed limit
- Disregarding traffic stop signs or stop lights
- Speeding
- Aggressive behaviors such as weaving in and out of traffic and tailgating
Do not hesitate to report drivers you think may be impaired to your local police department. Doing so may prevent a serious, injury-causing accident.
Keep Your 4th of July BBQ Safe
If you are planning on grilling this 4th, be sure to practice basic barbecue safety. Nationwide suggests practicing the following barbeque safety tips:
- Grill outside and away from your home or any other structures
- Ensure that your grill is on a flat surface and stable
- Keep your grill clean
- If you are using a gas grill, check for leaks
- Wait five minutes to re-light your grill if the flame goes out
- Be careful around the grill
- Be careful when using charcoal starter fluid
- Wear proper clothing
- Be prepared to put out a fire by having baking soda or a fire extinguisher on hand
Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Nashville Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in a preventable accident, you should call the experienced attorneys of Bednarz Law as soon as you can. To schedule a free case evaluation with an injury attorney serving the Nashville area, call our office today at 615-256-0100 or contact us online.
