(COLORADO) — Independence Day is a time for celebration and fun, with many heading out and about this Fourth of July.
Many in Southern Colorado will enjoy the warm weather and the great outdoors, and while it is a time to be out, the American Red Cross of Southern Colorado is reminding the community to have a safe holiday and summer.
“Here in Southern Colorado, many of us enjoy going for a swim, grilling with our friends, or camping in the great outdoors,” said Phil Martinez, Executive Director, Red Cross of Southern Colorado. “The Red Cross wants you to be safe no matter what your plans include and offers steps you can follow to have a safe summer.”
Those who are set to grill this week: be aware. Grilling sparks more than 10,000 home fires on average each year.
When grilling, individuals should always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Some other safety measures include:
Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to help keep the chef safe.
Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
Separate uncooked meats, poultry, and seafood from ready-to-eat foods like salads, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and desserts. Use separate plates and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
With grilling, some may also take to going swimming or water activities. The Red Cross reminds the community to be “water smart” and build confidence in the water by learning to be safer, making good choices, learning to swim, and knowing how to handle emergencies. It further advises to:
Prevent unsupervised access to water, provide constant and active adult supervision, and know how to swim.
Never swim alone
Designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water.
Wear your life jacket.
In the event of an emergency, in the water, the Red Cross recommends to ‘reach and throw’ an object to the person in trouble and tell them to grab onto it.
“Don’t go in! You could become a victim yourself,” the Red Cross wrote.
For those who may be taking up to the wilderness to camp, being prepared for an emergency is critical. Especially if you are heading for an area with limited access to phone services and help. If camping, make sure you:
Wear light layers of lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
Pack a first aid kit with insect repellent, sunscreen, and personal medications.
Share your plans, including where you are going and when you’ll be back with a family member, neighbor, or friend.
Bring nutritious food items and plenty of water, even if you don’t expect to stay overnight.
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