A Safe Independence Day
Independence Day is a joyful day — a time to go outdoors, meet friends and family, and celebrate our state's independence. Alongside the festivities, it’s important to remember that large public festivities and certain independence-related items, such as foam spray, can pose dangers, especially for children. To help ensure a safe and happy Independence Day for everyone, we've put together some important safety tips.
Mass gatherings: great fun—great responsibility
Big crowds can be dangerous, especially for small children who may be at risk of getting trampled or falling. In a moment of distraction, a child can also get lost in the crowd.
Preventing risks in crowded settings
- Keep your children close, especially in crowded places.
- Agree in advance on a meeting point in case you get separated, and show your child how to find it.
- Dress your children in brightly colored clothing so they’re easier to spot from a distance.
- Avoid bringing strollers to extremely crowded areas.
- If your child has a cell phone, teach them to message you if they get lost.
- Explain to children that if they get lost and can’t find you, they should go to a nearby security guard or police officer.
- For young children, put a note in their pocket with your phone numbers and teach them to give it to a security guard or police officer.
Fireworks
Fireworks are a classic symbol of Independence Day. However, getting too close to them can lead to serious burns, eye injuries, or even fires. Always enjoy organized firework shows from a safe distance. It's best to avoid using fireworks yourself, and children should never handle them.
Foam spray: short-lived fun—a risk to your eyes
Every Independence Day, dozens of children are injured by foam sprays, firecrackers, and similar items. Foam spray, also known as “snow spray,” contains chemicals that can cause corneal damage if it gets in the eyes. It is considered dangerous and should not be used or sold to children. Additionally, it is flammable and can explode if exposed to open flames, such as campfires.
If foam spray gets in the eyes, rinse the eyes immediately with running water for several minutes. If irritation or pain continues, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Outdoor fun: enjoying the sun with extra care
Independence Day is a public holiday, and many families spend it outdoors — in nature, visiting attractions, or at barbecues. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn, especially in children. It’s important to follow basic safety guidelines, which you can read more about in our Summer Safety article.
To prevent dehydration, make sure children — and you, the parents — drink enough water throughout the day, even if no one feels thirsty. If warning signs of heatstroke appear, such as dizziness, nausea, or a high fever, move the child to a cool, shaded area, place cool, wet cloths on their forehead, and give them water to drink slowly. If symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately.
Swimming at the sea or pool
On Independence Day and the days following, the weather is ideal for spending time at the beach, pool, or natural water bodies. Follow all safety guidelines to prevent drowning. Every year, dozens of infants and young children drown, 40% of them in the sea. Remember: when a child is drowning, they usually can’t call for help, and it happens rapidly. Always keep your eyes on children near water — even shallow water.
Remember: Infants can drown in as little as 4 inches (10 cm) of water.