Stay Safe this Fourth of July

Escambia County wishes residents and visitors a safe, fun July Fourth with friends and family, and reminds everyone to follow these tips to make the most out of their holiday. Remember: If you spot a brush or wildfire or if someone is injured, call 911.

Fireworks

• Remember, most fireworks are illegal in the state of Florida. It is unlawful for any person to set off fireworks without a permit. A good rule of thumb is if it flies or explodes, it is not legal in Florida. Using illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor and is a crime punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. The State Fire Marshal's approved sparkler list can be found here. 
• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals. 
• Never give fireworks or sparklers to small children, and always follow the instructions on the package. 

Fireworks and Pets

• July Fourth can be a frightening time for pets. Make sure your pets are safe at home and secured indoors during the holiday, especially when there are fireworks.
• Do not leave your pet in the car while you watch a fireworks display. In only a matter of minutes, the heat in a car can cause serious health problems or even death. A stressed animal can also cause major damage to the interior of your car.
• Keep pets indoors. Turn on the TV or radio as a distraction and close the curtains.
• Never leave pets unattended outside, not even in a fenced yard or on a chain, if you are near a fireworks display or if your neighbors are lighting small fireworks. They may try to run away or become tangled up in their chain.
• Provide a pet bed or crate in a quiet place to create a small den-like atmosphere and a sense of security.
• If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times.
• Keep pets away from fireworks, open fires and matches.
• Encourage your pet to “go” before fireworks begin by taking your pet for a walk. If your pet becomes frightened, this can help prevent toileting accidents.
• Make sure your pet has proper identification tags with current information in case they run away.
• If your pet often becomes stressed during periods of loud noise like thunderstorms, check with your veterinarian to see if a tranquilizer is appropriate for your pet.
• Keep all of the following out of reach of your pets: alcohol, lighter fluid, sunscreen, citronella, mosquito coils, and other insect repellents not labeled for pets. 
• Glow sticks and fireworks are not safe for pets. Unused fireworks can be dangerous if ingested.

Grilling Safety

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

Beach Safety and Rip Currents

• Check before you go and follow the posted beach condition flag warnings. Watch our lifeguards explain the flag system on Pensacola Beach. Beach conditions can be checked at PensacolaBeachLifeguards.com and on the Pensacola Beach Lifeguards Facebook page.
• Regardless of your swimming level, never swim alone, and always swim near a lifeguard.
• If in doubt, don't go out. 
• Know how to escape from a rip current. Watch our rip current video and learn how to break the grip of the rip, which can pull even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
• Be sure to wear and reapply sunscreen often and drink plenty of water. Remember that alcohol, sun and swimming do not mix.