Tips For a Fun and Safe Fourth of July

Ready for the 4th of July holiday? There are plenty of kid-friendly activities in Monterey County the entire family can enjoy.

In Monterey County, there are numerous fireworks shows and festive activities around the area (find events here). Whether heading out of town or staying home for the holiday, it is important to remain safe and plan accordingly for the busy day.

Here are some of the top tips for remaining safe and enjoying the holiday:

Always set fireworks off outside, not inside

Igniting fireworks inside your home, even small sparklers, is extremely dangerous for the family and guests. Set off fireworks outside and remain a reasonable distance from any buildings. Setting off fireworks over a paved surface is safer than over grass due to the increased risk of a fire starting with vegetation.

Never allow young children to handle fireworks alone

If you are setting off sparklers for personal entertainment, make sure that adults supervise young children. Accidents and injuries can happen, so teaching kids how to handle fireworks safely is important. Gently remind your children that an adult should always ignite fireworks.

Handle fireworks from a safe distance.

When handling sparklers, make sure children hold them out at arm’s length away from their faces. With larger fireworks, walk away quickly after igniting and keep kids a safe distance so they can view and enjoy them safely.

Always keep a bucket of water nearby to extinguish fireworks

Be prepared to have a bucket of water in hand. Place sparklers or small fireworks directly inside the water to prevent sparks from landing on the ground or vegetation.

Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks

In Monterey County, firework restrictions have been put in place. Be mindful of curfews and safety regulations established by the County. You should not use illegal fireworks; report them immediately if you see someone setting off them.

Keep small kids close by if you are in a large group setting

If you are attending a fireworks display, keep an eye on any small children. With darkness, large crowds, and loud noise, losing track of small children and finding them after separation can be a reality. Have a meeting spot in mind and ensure your kids understand where to regroup if your family becomes separated.

Make sure your pet is secure and comfortable (if you have one)

Many of our furry loved ones become extremely anxious with the sound of booming fireworks, even if they are in the distance. Be careful when launching fireworks in front of your pets. During times of anxiety, pets (more commonly dogs) often become unpredictable and can run away if scared. Ensure your pet has an identification tag if they get separated from your family. Secure your pet in an interior room with adequate food, water, and toys. To avoid incessant barking and anxiety, try using a popular calming blanket; these products have mainly been used for instances of thunder, but they have become a more popular item during the Fourth of July and New Year holidays.

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