County Officials Offer Tips To Stay Safe For The Fourth

July 4, 2017

Escambia County wishes residents and visitors a safe, fun July Fourth with friends and family, and reminds everyone to follow these tips to make the most out of their holiday. Remember: If you spot a brush or wildfire or if someone is injured, call 911.

Fireworks

  • Remember, most fireworks are illegal in the state of Florida. It is unlawful for any person to set off fireworks without a permit. A good rule of thumb is if it flies or explodes, it is not legal in Florida. Using illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor and is a crime punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. The State Fire Marshal’s approved sparkler list can be found here.
  • The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals.
  • Never give fireworks or sparklers to small children, and always follow the instructions on the package.

Fireworks and Pets

  • July Fourth can be a frightening time for pets. Make sure your pets are safe at home and secured indoors during the holiday, especially when there are fireworks.
  • Do not leave your pet in the car while you watch a fireworks display. In only a matter of minutes, the heat in a car can cause serious health problems or even death. A stressed animal can also cause major damage to the interior of your car.
  • Keep pets indoors. Turn on the TV or radio as a distraction and close the curtains.
  • Never leave pets unattended outside, not even in a fenced yard or on a chain, if you are near a fireworks display or if your neighbors are lighting small fireworks. They may try to run away or become tangled up in their chain.
  • Provide a pet bed or crate in a quiet place to create a small den-like atmosphere and a sense of security.
  • If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times.
  • Keep pets away from fireworks, open fires and matches.
  • Encourage your pet to “go” before fireworks begin by taking your pet for a walk. If your pet becomes frightened, this can help prevent toileting accidents.
  • Make sure your pet has proper identification tags with current information in case they run away.
  • If your pet often becomes stressed during periods of loud noise like thunderstorms, check with your veterinarian to see if a tranquilizer is appropriate for your pet.
  • Keep all of the following out of reach of your pets: alcohol, lighter fluid, sunscreen, citronella, mosquito coils, and other insect repellents not labeled for pets.
  • Glow sticks and fireworks are not safe for pets. Unused fireworks can be dangerous if ingested.

Grilling Safety

  • Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
  • Never grill indoors – not in your house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
  • Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
  • Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
  • Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using grills.

Beach Safety and Rip Currents

  • Check before you go and follow the posted beach condition flag warnings. Beach conditions can be checked at PensacolaBeachLifeguards.com and on the Pensacola Beach Lifeguards Facebook page.
  • Regardless of your swimming level, never swim alone, and always swim near a lifeguard.
  • If in doubt, don’t go out.
  • Know how to escape from a rip current.
  • Learn how to break the grip of the rip, which can pull even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
  • Be sure to wear and reapply sunscreen often and drink plenty of water. Remember that alcohol, sun and swimming do not mix.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News