Stay Safe While Enjoying Fireworks #OKfire

The Fourth of July is approaching, and that means barbeques and fireworks! Many people love seeing the bright colors fly through the night air, but it is important to keep in mind that fireworks are explosives, and only professionals should handle them. A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that more than 200 people, on average, go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in July close to the Independence Day holiday. Follow these tips to prevent injury from fireworks: Attend fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. Do not try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited. Keep sparklers away from children. They can burn at temperatures about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals. For more information on fireworks safety, check out the CPSC Fireworks page.

Create a Pet Emergency Kit

National Pet Preparedness Month is in full swing and with summer heating up and hurricane season underway, there is no better time to learn how to keep your pets safe in the event of severe weather. Prepare your pets now for hurricanes, extreme heat, and other hazards by creating a pet emergency kit. Get started by following these tips from the Ready Campaign: Food: Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container. First aid kit: Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention supplies; latex gloves; isopropyl alcohol; and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book as well. Collar with ID tag, harness or leash: Your pet should wear a collar with a vaccinations tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet’s emergency supply kit. Familiar items: Put favorite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet. Your pets cannot prepare for an emergency, but you can. Find additional information for preparing your pets in the Pet Owners Fact Sheet.

Travel Safely this Summer

Are you ready for your summer vacation? Whether planning a road trip or traveling abroad, stay prepared for emergencies with information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of State, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Ready Campaign, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Please consider the following tips: Create a Communication Plan to stay in contact with friends and family. Download the FEMA App. Review the Travelers’ Health information from the CDC. Before driving, click through the NHTSA’s Summer Driving Tips. If traveling abroad, use the Traveler’s Checklist from the State Department. When flying, follow the TSA's Airport Security Tips. To learn more about emergency preparedness, visit www.ready.gov.