Keep Family, Friends and Pets Safe During Independence Day Celebration

As we prepare to celebrate the brightest, most patriotic day on the calendar, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) and Denver Animal Protection (DAP) ask that you consider the "3 Fs," fireworks, food and forecast, to ensure you, and your loved ones have a safe and festive Independence Day weekend.

Fireworks

Fireworks are a staple of celebration on and around Independence Day. And while most people look forward to those bright explosions in the sky, all fireworks remain illegal in Denver, including sparklers, snakes, fountains, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and any fireworks that explode or leave the ground.

Lighting personal fireworks poses serious physical risks. Every year, thousands of people including many children and teens, are injured using fireworks. Common injuries include burns to the hands and face, eye trauma, and permanent loss of fingers or limbs. Mishandling fireworks or using illegal or malfunctioning devices can quickly turn a celebration into a trip to the hospital.

Fireworks are not only dangerous to people's physical health, but they can also have a serious impact on individuals with mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and sensory sensitivities. The sudden, loud noises and bright flashes can trigger intense emotional and physical responses, including panic attacks, flashbacks and heightened stress levels. Consider the unintended consequences of fireworks and show compassion for those whose mental health may be negatively affected by leaving them to the professionals.

Illegal fireworks can be reported online at Denvergov.org/311 or by calling 720-913-2059. Do not call 911 for fireworks unless there's an injury or fire that threatens life or property.

We can't forget about our pets. Experts at DAP warn pet owners that fireworks can scare even the most chill of pets. And frightened animals are much more likely to run, hide or become destructive. Animal shelters, including Denver Animal Shelter, generally see more stray animals around the holiday than other times of the year. There were 46% more strays on average, the week after July Fourth when compared to the average of the rest of the year. So, before you bring your pet to a holiday event, follow these safety tips:

Don't:

• Take your pet to parades or fireworks displays or leave your pet in the car at fireworks shows.
• Leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Pets that normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, when fearful. This puts them at risk of injury or death.

Do:

• Keep pets indoors at home in a safe, quiet area, perhaps in a crate. Some animals can become destructive when scared, so be sure to put away fragile items. Also provide a distraction with puzzle feeders, a treat-filled Kong, white noise from a fan or soothing music.
• License and microchip your pet. If your pet escapes, having identification increases the likelihood your pet will be returned to you. Visit DAS at 1241 W. Bayaud Ave., to get your pet microchipped or licensed.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags, so if they do get lost, they can be quickly returned. DAS offers customizable pet IDs.
• Use a leash or carrier when transporting your pet if you must be outside with your pet.
• Talk to your veterinarian if you know your dog has anxiety. A doctor can prescribe medication to help.

DAP has additional tips on how to prevent and find a lost pet. Animals found running at-large should be taken to your local animal shelter where they have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

The shelter will be closed on Saturday, July 4, but officers will respond to emergencies. Also, the shelter has "night drop" kennels open after hours to help keep lost pets safe even after the shelter has closed. If your pet becomes lost over the holiday, check our Lost Pets listings online.

Food

The Fourth also means family time and outdoor barbeques. But with the fun comes risk. Improper handling of meat and other perishables can lead to foodborne illness, putting a damper on your celebration. Follow these simple dos and don'ts to keep your cookout safe and delicious:

Do:

• Keep raw meat separate from cooked and ready-to-eat foods.
• Use a food thermometer to check internal temperatures: 165 degrees for poultry, 160°F for ground meats, and 145 degrees for steaks and pork.
• Chill cold foods on ice and keep hot foods warm on the grill or in insulated containers.
• Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces frequently-especially after handling raw meat.
• Keep pets away from charcoal, food scraps and kabob skewers.

Don't:

• Leave perishable food out for more than two hours-or more than one hour if it's over 90 degrees outside.
• Use the same plate or utensils for raw and cooked meats.
• Assume meat is done just by looking at it-always check with a thermometer.
• Forget to clean your grill before and after use to prevent cross-contamination.

Forecast

Keep an eye on the forecast and plan activities accordingly. High temperatures can cause illness, as excessive heat can increase your body's core temperature. High temps can also contribute to poor air quality, like ozone, which shows up as a harmful haze. But there are some simple things you can do to protect yourself from heat-related illness and pollution while celebrating outside:

Do:

• Fans aren't always enough. Head indoors with A/C, like the library, museum or shopping mall.
• Wear and frequently reapply sunscreen.
• Keep an eye on vulnerable populations, like children and older adults.
• Drink more water than usual and don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat.
• Know the symptoms of heat-related illness and seek care if needed.
• Symptoms of heat-related illness can include red or itchy skin, muscle pain or cramps, shallow breathing, elevated body temperature, a weak but quick pulse, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea, dizziness or fainting.
• Make sure your pet has plenty of water and shade if spending time outdoors during the day. This helps ensure your pet is well hydrated and does not become anxious or overheated.

Don't

• Don't drink alcohol or beverages that contain caffeine.
• Overexert yourself when working or playing outside, especially during the middle of the day when the sun is hottest.
• Never leave a pet alone in a hot car. Temperatures inside a car during warm days can reach 120 degrees quickly. Animals can suffer life-threatening heatstroke in a matter of minutes, which can cause organ failure and death.

The Fourth is all about family, friends, relaxation and a day to celebrate our independence from British rule. Be mindful of holiday dangers and it won't be a day you and your loved ones spend injured or worse.