Best Wishes for a happy Fourth of July from Ron Jackson Insurance, an independent insurance agency that hopes everyone will celebrate Independence Day in a safe way!
As the 4th of July holiday is nearing, you’re probably seeing fireworks stands popping up in local parking lots, sales on hot dogs, chips, beer, you name it. Nothing says Happy Birthday America like getting together with your friends and family to celebrate our proud country!
While the 4th is a fun time to celebrate summer, we want everyone to be safe. Between grilling, fireworks and boating, there are too many opportunities for unfortunate situations to arise. Here are some tips for summer safety!
Food Facts:
Keep meats frozen or refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. Don’t keep meat or poultry out on the counter. While your air may be running inside, keeping your house cool, meats should be refrigerated to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Never, never, never use the same platter and utensils for raw and cooked meats. Harmful bacteria can be found in raw meat. Make sure you use a clean plate when transferring cooked food from the grill to the table!
Every party has the master griller. To ensure he or she doesn’t burn their hands, use extra long tongs and spatulas. Nobody wants to nurse a burn when they could be partying!
Fun With Fireworks:
My parents never let me play with fireworks as a child. I was always envious of my friends twirling their sparklers. While children may think fireworks are cool, burning yourself is not! Do NOT allow young children to play with fireworks. If you do allow your children to indulge, make sure an adult is present to supervise! Sparklers can be dangerous!
Do not re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited and don’t carry fireworks in your pocket. NEVER point or throw fireworks at another person, animal, house, building or vehicle.
Make sure you have water handy; either a bucket of water or a garden hose.
Before you spend a fortune, review your state’s fireworks laws before buying or using them. Michigan’s laws have recently changed. While Michigan Fireworks Safety Act may allow you to purchase and use fireworks, your local government may regulate or limit the use to certain days and times.
Sail Away Safely:
Have you taken a boating safety course? While it could help save lives and prevent errors at sea (or lake), your insurance company may give you a discount for taking the course- win win!
Make a float plan. Talk to your passengers before setting sail and make sure you have a plan, should something go wrong on the water.
Wear your life jacket! While you may think you’re an excellent swimmer, you never know what could happen on the open water. Life jackets save lives!
Did you know that federal law requires you, the operator, to file a boating accident report with the State? Make sure you follow the rules and stay safe out there!
Happy 4th of July from the Ron Jackson Agency!
