This weekend is one of the most exciting weekends here in the States, Fourth of July weekend. Many families will pack up their minivans (or other suitable family cars) and head out to the lake, camping, or maybe camping on the lake. One thing is for sure we'll be with friends and family, and weather permitting we'll be outside.
Make sure you take the proper safety precautions to avoid dangerous accidents and keep your weekend as fun and worry free as possible.
Travel
Traveling is stressful, traveling with kids can be extra stressful. Make sure to pack a few things to keep them busy in the car as well as a few snacks. This is a big travel weekend, whenever you leave be prepared for construction and extra traffic. Mentally prepare yourself and your family for this before you hit the road and try to relax, drive safely and you'll get where you're going. As much as no one likes a long road trip make sure everyone in the car is wearing their seat belt, and ensure that all children are properly strapped into the car seat or booster seat suited to their size and age. Bring pillows and blankets for children to help keep them comfortable and to encourage napping on the long drive.
Water
Going to the lake is great fun for the whole family, there are beaches, boats and a host of other activities to entertain the whole family. Especially if you have children with you it is important to follow water safety guidelines. Never let your children play in or near the water when they are not wearing a life jacket. If you will be spending a good deal of time in or on the water, find a way to make the life jacket something fun and cool to wear. The proper fit is important to keep your little one safe, if you can try on life jackets at home before you leave to make sure they fit properly. Lakes and rivers are likely to be busy, pay close attention to traffic patterns while boating, and don't pull skiers or tubers in unsafe locations.
Sun
Pack your SPF! Apply SPF to the whole family about 30 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply throughout the day to prevent burning. Watch children and the elderly for signs of heat related illness and be sure to have water on hand to keep everyone hydrated. While enjoying the outdoors scout out locations where shade can be found if needed.
Grilling
Keep your grill in a safe location away from your home and any flammable objects. Warn children of the dangers of getting near a hot grill and keep a close eye on children and the grill while it is in use.
Pets
Kids aren't the only ones you need to keep a close eye on this weekend, the Fourth of July is a common time for pets to run off. On top of keeping them hydrated and safe from extreme temperatures (just like humans) be sure to think about them during fireworks. Have your pets micro chipped, and keep your contact information up to date for the microchip registration. Tags on a collar with your pets name and your contact information makes it easy for someone to contact you should they find your pet. Lastly during fireworks either keep your pet safely inside, or on a chain or leash if they are outside.
Fireworks
Fireworks are one of my favorite parts of this holiday, just be sure to follow all local laws regarding purchase and use wherever you are. Take proper safety precautions when setting them off, and never let children handle them.