Tips to help keep you safe this 4th of July Weekend

Celebrating America’s birthday can be a great time to get together and celebrate with family and friends. 

It also can be a time to get caught up in the excitement and that’s when distractions can happen.  Here are a few tips to stay safe during this red, white and blue holiday.

Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Be sure to later up the whole family (you’re never too old to need UV protection).  More importantly, be sure to do it more than once. Did you know that sunscreen should be applied every 2 hours?  If you’re swimming or doing an activity that gets you sweaty (like hiking Mount Beacon) it should be applied about every 45 minutes.  Be sure to use a good amount to entirely coat your skin.

Nominate a Lifeguard 

Having a dedicated set (or two) of eyes during your pool party will prove to be helpful.  Whether it is a children’s party, adults or swimmers of all ages, you can never be too careful when it comes to water safety.

Consider ear protection

With so many spectacular fireworks displays here in the Hudson Valley, there is a good chance you may catch more than one viewing.  While those displays are spectacular, they can also be very loud especially for children’s delicate ears. Bring along a pair of noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for your little ones.  

Keep your food cool

With so many amazing side dish options to make for the 4th, and all summer long, it’s easy to want to make it all.  Be conscious of how long food is being left out, especially in the heat. You want to be sure to not leave perishable foods unrefrigerated for more than an hour.  Adding food poisoning to your holiday weekend schedule would not be fun.  

Be safe on the road

While we are mentioning this last, it is certainly not the least important.  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports 4th of July with one of the highest days of the year with road fatalities.  If you drink, don’t drive. As always, avoid texting or any other distractions while driving. Be sure everyone in your car is safely fastened in their seats.  

From everyone at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, we wish you a Happy & Safe 4th of July!