Willow Lake is busy preparing for our annual Fourth of July celebration. Everyone in town is filled with patriotic spirit and cannot wait for the spectacular fireworks that mark this significant day in American history. Besides the fun there are also important safety measures to keep in mind to ensure that you have a fabulous and safe celebration. Here are some ideas and precautions to help you make the most of your Independence Day festivities.
Fun Activities for the Fourth
Patriotic Decorations: Transform your home into a red, white, and blue wonderland. Involve the whole family in crafting patriotic decorations. From flags and banners to table centerpieces, the possibilities are endless. The residents of Willow Lake love to decorate for the fourth of July. You can see red, white & blue everywhere. It makes celebrating the significant holiday more festive.
Outdoor Games: Enjoy classic outdoor games like cornhole, sack races, and tug-of-war. These activities are great for all ages and can create lasting memories with family and friends. And don’t forget to have prizes for the winners. One year my mom presented the winners with bottles of bubbles. The adults had just as much fun as the kids.
BBQ and Picnic: Fire up the grill and enjoy a barbecue with your favorite summer foods. Burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob are crowd-pleasers and easy to cook. A selection of fresh salads and fruits are also great to have. Mix it up and try something new as well.
Community Events: Many towns and cities host parades, fairs, and concerts. Check out local events and join in the community spirit. It’s a great way to meet neighbors and feel connected to the larger celebration.
Safety Tips to Keep in Mind
Fireworks Safety:
Always follow local laws and regulations regarding fireworks.
Light fireworks one at a time and keep a safe distance after lighting.
Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies.
Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Sparklers can be a safer alternative for kids but still require supervision.
Grill Safety:
Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from buildings and overhanging branches.
Never leave the grill unattended while in use.
Clean the grill regularly to prevent grease fires.
Ensure that the grill is on a stable surface to avoid tipping.
Sun and Heat Protection:
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Wear hats and sunglasses to protect against sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
Food Safety:
Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice packs.
Avoid leaving food out in the sun for extended periods.
Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked meats to prevent cross-contamination.
Pet Safety:
Keep pets indoors during fireworks to prevent anxiety and escape attempts.
Ensure pets have access to a quiet, safe space.
Avoid feeding pets any human food that may be harmful to them.
Most of all, whatever your plans are for the 4th of July… celebrate and enjoy!
Until next time… stay prepped & prepared.
Pep
