TIPS FOR FIRE SAFETY

The Kern County Fire Department issued the following tips to enjoy the Fourth of July weekend safely:

Any fireworks that eject into the air are illegal.

Only buy fireworks with the “Safe and Sane” label.

Never buy fireworks from an individual home or street.

A $1,500 citation is given to first-time offenders, which can increase to $2,500 for repeat offenders.

Don’t light fireworks indoors.

Don’t modify fireworks to be extra powerful. Don’t ignite fireworks near dry grasses or anything flammable.

Have a water source nearby to drench fireworks.

Groundbloom flowers and Piccolo Petes are illegal in city limits but legal in county areas where personal fireworks are allowed.

The Grossman Burn Center said burn injuries can be traumatic and painful, and issued tips to celebrate safely:

Common injuries during Fourth of July are second- and third-degree burns to the face, hands and feet.

The Grossman Burn Center is open 24/7. Basic first aid for burns smaller than a palm includes:

Removing clothing or jewelry . Cooling the burn for 3 to 5 minutes with water — no direct ice or home remedies such as mayonnaise, mustard or butter, said Darci Comb, a program coordinator with the Grossman Burn Center. These items can deepen the burn by trapping heat, Combs noted. Keep it clean — keep it covered.

Fourth of July may spark feelings of anxiety, sadness and fear for those impacted by trauma or PTSD, according to Kern

County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.

Call the following numbers to navigate through those emotions:

Crisis Hotline: 800-991-5272 Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-991-5272

Fireworks terrify cats and dogs, said Heidi Salinas, a senior animal control officer with Kern County Animal Services. Here is some information to protect pets:

Secure fencing around a backyard if pets bolt from fear.

Ensure pets have a collar with correct contact information.

The county animal services department is offering free redemption from July 2 to July 6. Owners should acclimate their pets to crates now if they aim to keep them inside during the weekend.

Don’t keep pets in direct sunlight because they can die of heat exhaustion. Ensure there is plenty of water for pets.