How to Stay Safe This Fourth of July Weekend

Fourth of July weekend should be celebratory, but drinking, distractions and fireworks can sometimes lead to trouble. According to the United States Fire Administration, almost 8,600 Americans are injured by fireworks each year, along with almost 5,000 who are injured by charcoal/wood-burning and propane grill fires.

Patch spoke with career firefighter Carmen Conicelli of the Gladwyne Fire Company for some Fourth of July safety tips. 

Fireworks

Fireworks can be dangerous, especially following dry weather, when sparks can quickly result in a huge brush fire if proper precautions are not taken, Conicelli said.

And about 40 percent of fireworks injuries are to children younger than 15, Lower Merion Fire Chief Chas McGarvey noted in a press release.

• Only light fireworks in an open field away from the house.
• Only allow adults to light fireworks. Everyone else should remain a safe distance away.
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher on hand to douse fireworks or sparks should they get out of hand.
• When finished, douse extra fireworks with water.
• Sparklers are not toys, McGarvey added. They can reach up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature that can melt some metals.

Grilling

Fourth of July also means firing up the grill. Unfortunately, grills placed near the house can easily catch siding on fire if not properly attended. Many fires also result from grills that are not properly cleaned, because the grease catches fire underneath, Conicelli said.

• Keep grills five to 10 feet away from the house.
• Take care when lighting the grill.
• Always turn off the propane tank when done grilling.
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher close by in case it is necessary to douse the grill.
• Always properly dispose of hot coals. Douse with water afterwards, and always let embers completely cool before placing them in the trash. Do not place hot embers in paper or plastic bags or wooden containers.
• Make sure kids and pets and stay at least three feet away from the grill at all times, McGarvey added.
• Use long barbeque mitts and long-handled grilling tools to avoid burns.
• Periodically empty grease from trays beneath the grill.

General tips

• Always be careful to keep matches and lighters away from children, and keep a close eye on grills, fireworks and other fires.
• Know how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
• Know how to "stop, drop and roll" so you're prepared in case of a fire.
• Don't leave campfires unattended.
• Fireworks permits from Lower Merion Township cost $150 each. Fireworks are not allowed in any of the township parks.