Fourth of July safety tips for you and your pet

With Fourth of July festivities in full swing, officials in Boston are reminding the public to stay safe during their celebrations.

Boston officials are stepping up security and warning people to be cautious of the heat and crowds as the annual Boston Esplanade celebration is expected to bring in up to 400,000 people.

While official safety precautions will be made at big events like the Esplanade, don't forget to be extra careful at your own celebrations to keep everyone - including pets - safe.

Fourth of July Safety Tips:

Cookout Safety: 

• Always supervise a grill when in use.
• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using grills.
• Never grill indoors – not in your house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
• Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
• Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
• Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.

Firework Safety:

• Read and follow the directions on all fireworks.
• Never use homemade or altered/combined fireworks.
• Never let children handle firework materials.
• Only people over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
• Wear eye protectors when lighting a firework.
• Do not handle firework materials under the influence of alcohol.
• Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
• When lighting fireworks, always have water (a hose or bucket) nearby.
• Soak all firework materials in water before putting them in trash .
• Keep a safe distance from the fireworks being lit (at least 75 feet.)
• Only light fireworks outdoors on a smooth, flat surface, away from all flammable materials including dry leaves and paper.
• Report any illegal explosives or behavior to the nearest fire or police department.

Don't forget your furry friend! Tips to keep your pets safe this July Fourth:

During the day:

• Make sure to provide plenty of shade and water for your pet.
• Keep pets inside in the coolest parts of the home during the most intense heat waves.
• During cookouts, keep wooden or metal skewers, foil and plastic wrap, corn cobs and bones out of reach from your pets to avoid choking hazards.

During fireworks:

• Keep your pet in a small room of the house with the T.V. or radio on and shades drawn to block out both explosive sounds and the bright lights of fireworks.
• Keep your pet occupied with a tasty treat or favorite game.
• Never leave your pet outside unaccompanied —especially during fireworks displays, which can bring out unusual behavior such as running away.

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