Happy 4th of July!

We wish all our employees and friends a safe and Happy 4th of July!

A federal holiday since 1941, July 4th is celebrated as the birth of American independence, but the tradition goes back to 1776. Today we celebrate with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades, and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. Keeping safety in mind, we want to share 10 fire safety tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [1]

• Be sure fireworks are legal in your area before using or buying them.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities and never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparklers alone account for one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.
• If you set off fireworks, keep a bucket of water handy in case of malfunction or fire.
• If fireworks malfunction, don’t relight them! Douse and soak them with water then throw them away.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially one that is glass or metal.
• Use your grill well away from your home and deck railings, and out from under branches or overhangs.
• Open your gas grill before lighting.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below your gas or propane grill so it cannot be ignited.
• Declare a three-foot "kid and pet-free zone" around the grill to keep them safe.
• Avoid loose clothing that can catch fire when cooking on the grill.

You can find more information and tips on being fire safe on the Fourth of July, and every day by visiting www.usfa.fema.gov.

[1] https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2016/06/30/ten-safety-tips-4th-july