Tips for 4th of July Safety

Please keep these precautions in mind as you prepare for the weekend, we want everyone to enjoy the holiday.  Hope you have a safe and happy 4th of July!

·  Step 1 Check you newspaper and Chamber of Commerce website for events. Mot towns have parades, festivals, and/or firework shows. Looking for something a little different? Check small towns nearby if you live in a big city. You will have smaller crowds to deal with and less stress.

·  Step 2

Make sure you take sunscreen, snacks, plenty of water and a wagon for supplies and small children. You might also want a blanket, insect spray and lawn chairs if you are staying for the fireworks, (and why wouldn't you?) If you have small children, you might also consider everyone wearing the same brightly colored hat or t-shirt. It will be easier to stay together in a crowd. Designate a meeting place that even the smallest child can tell someone if one of you gets separated from the group.

·  Step 3

Leave pets at home. There will be other dogs to worry about, big crowds, and loud noises. Why subject a pet to the stress? Take them out another day.

·  Step 4

If you are planning a cookout at the park, get there early. Don't forget charcoal, lighter fluid, matches, and if you live in Texas at least, Raid for the trash cans. (Bees are aweful and they gather around trash cans in swarms)

·  Step 5

Find your spot for the fireworks show at least an hour before dusk. bring books or small games for the kids so they will have something to do before the show starts.

Safe Pets

 Fourth of July is coming up and everyone is looking forward to a long weekend of fun and fireworks. Unfortunately, sometimes we forget what's enjoyable for us isn't for our four-legged pals and without proper precautions this can lead to tragedy.

If you prepare before the festivities begin you can prevent a tragedy from happening to you.

Fortunately, preventing pet problems on Independence Day is possible by simply planning ahead and taking some basic precautions.

"With a little bit of planning and forethought, you can enjoy the excitement of the Fourth of July and know that your animal companion is safe, sound, and enjoying a little peace and quiet," said Nancy Peterson, an issues specialist with The Humane Society if the United States.

To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, take these precautions:

* Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.

* Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects-even death-in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

* Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.

* If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.