Enjoy your 4th! Tips to help you keep your celebrations safe!

2016-06-30
By: Advocate Brokerage

Happy Birthday America!

As Americans gather together to celebrate our country’s birthday, Advocate Brokerage is here to offer you some tips to help you enjoy your 4^th of July celebration and keep you claim free! The top claims we see during this time of year include:

Firework Related Injuries
In the month surrounding July 4^th, 200 people are taken to the ER everyday with firework related injuries.  Fireworks make 4^th of July celebrations more memorable but you need to be sure you are taking steps to keep everyone safe.

Our best advice?
Leave the fireworks to the professionals. There is no shortage of firework celebrations at this time of year.  Sit back, relax & let professionals handle it!

Cooking Fires
Nothing says 4^th of July quite like a cooking al fresco.  Unfortunately, cooking fires are one of the top reasons for structure fires.

Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips
Here are some safety tips for cooking outside

• Follow the 10 foot rule.  Make sure to keep your grill at least 10 feet from your house, railings, tree branches & any household combustibles such as spray cans.
• Check all hoses for cracks and leaks, and be sure to keep hoses away from direct heat sources.
• Clean out the grease traps frequently.
• Do your best to keep the cooking area a safe distance from guests, paying special attention to kids and pets.
• Make sure your propane tank is properly attached to your grill – this is a common mishap for those who do not use their grill consistently

Car Accidents
More drivers on the roads and people celebrating with alcoholic beverages before heading home can add up to an increased risk for automobile accidents.

Stay Safe Tip
If you are heading out to a 4^th of July celebration that will involve drinking, establish a designated driver for the evening and if you are hosting a celebration of your own, keep an eye out for those who may have had one too many drinks and suggest they call a cab or Uber.

Boating Accidents
It is the perfect time of year to enjoy some time in your boat on the water.  Unfortunately, there are approximately 8,000 boating accidents per year in the US on 4^th of July weekend. If you plan on spending this year’s holiday out on the water, there are some things to consider.

Boating Safety Tips

• Boating while intoxicated can be just as dangerous as driving a car while intoxicated. Nearly 16% of all boating fatalities involved alcohol, making it the leading contributing factor in recreational boater deaths.
• Make sure there are enough life jackets available for all passengers.
• Never let passengers swim near the boat when the motor is running.

Happy 4^th of July from all of us here at Advocate!  Enjoy a safe and festive holiday.