fourth of july safety tips

Feature story

July 4th is one of America’s favorite holidays, rightfully so. By taking backyard barbeques, fireworks and pool parties, then mixing in a little libation, there is plenty potential for danger. As a matter of fact, the Albuquerque city officials are encouraging people eschew the use of amateur fireworks all together.

using fireworks

“The City of Albuquerque, along with the Albuquerque Fire Department, encourages metro area residents to attend public firework displays instead of purchasing fireworks,” according to a news release AFD sent out recently. With temperatures blistering their way into the triple digits, not only are areas like the Bosque, open space and city parks particularly vulnerable, but also it is also illegal to set off any fireworks in those areas. “We need the public to assist us in keeping Albuquerque safe from structure and wild land fires by using fireworks in a safe and appropriate manner this holiday weekend and year round,” said Albuquerque Fire Chief David Downey. Likewise, homes and neighborhoods can be at risk if proper precautions are not observed. Thankfully, AFD's cautions have been heeded, as last year there were no fires attributable to fireworks on July 4th, said AFD spokeswoman Melissa Romero.

Additionally last year, the department received more than 2,368 illegal firework calls, which resulted in 25 citations for the use of illegal fireworks. City law prohibits the sale and use of all aerial fireworks and ground audible devices, which means any paper or cardboard tube containing not more than 50 milligrams of pyrotechnic material that travels along the ground (chaser) upon ignition and often produces a whistling and/or popping effect, within the city limits. Using illegal fireworks is punishable with a citation and immediate confiscation of the illegal fireworks and places the community at risk for fires. It is a misdemeanor and a mandatory

court appearance so if found guilty, the offender can face up to 90 days in jail and/or up to $500 in fines.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when dealing with fire. Fireworks should only be used on paved or barren areas and away from homes, vegetation and combustible materials. Have a water source available to put out any unintended fires, such as a charged garden hose or two five-gallon buckets. Keep children and pets away from the firework lighting area and do not use homemade fireworks; they can lead to unpredictable explosions, which can cause severe injuries or worse.

pool safety

Backyard pools are great during holidays, especially the Fourth of July, as a welcome respite from the heat. But they also can be a source of significant danger if due diligence is not followed, said Josh Herbert, acting city of Albuquerque aquatic division manager. “The safest thing that someone can do if hosting a pool party is to have parents or adult supervision and be in arms reach of children at all times,” he said. “Drowning is silent and happens really quickly. Its not just having parents in the area and within arms’ reach, but somebody has to be designated to keep an eye on the children. Not just in close proximity, but watchful because drowning can happen quickly.”

Young children need to be supervised regardless of how well they know how to swim. “Yes, it goes for kids of all ages,” Herbert said. “For the longest time, the No. 1 cause of accidental deaths in children eight and younger was drowning in pools that don’t have lifeguards. It’s really important that parents keep an eye on them, even if parents think the children are excellent swimmers. Have your eyes on the children at all times when swimming in the water, regardless of age.” In addition, don’t rely on floatation devices that are not approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, which generally means a life vest, said Candace Hopkins, a spokeswoman for the city of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation Department. Arm floaters, she said, are not approved and can pose a danger, especially if they slip off.

barbeque safety

A burning grill is almost by definition a safety hazard and can quickly get out of control, so having a fire extinguisher within easy reach is a must. Additionally, having the power of knowledge is important in that it is imperative to know how to cut the supply, extinguish the fire and know how to treat burns. Position the grill away from highly flammable objects, like trees or a home, and never leave the grill unattended.

If using a charcoal grill, be extra careful because more fires occur using charcoal than propane. The main culprit is squirting lighter fluid onto an existing charcoal fire as this can cause splash back and severely burn the face and hands. Keep the grill clean of grease as it can accumulate quickly and is highly flammable. When cooking your food, low and slow is the way to go, as too much heat can lead to charring, which in turn can lead to the creation of cancer-causing substances called Heterocyclic Amines. Marinades can reduce this risk significantly, as will keeping the grill temperature under 600 degrees. These tips are helpful when it comes to keeping you, your loved ones and your home safe during the Fourth of July weekend and throughout the summer.

"We need the public to assist us in keeping Albuquerque safe from structure and wild land fires by using fireworks in a safe and appropriate manner this holiday weekend and year round."