Last year, my July 4^th blog offered you tips for an autism-friendly Independence Day. This year I’m discussing safety.  As with all holidays, there are many activities, but with the 4^th of July we think immediately of fireworks.

However, many community firework displays are being eliminated or cut back due to economic conditions, and families are purchasing fireworks for their own backyard celebrations.

Each year thousands of children and teenagers continue to be injured while using fireworks. Some guidelines to follow:

• Keep back a safe distance away when fireworks are being used.
• Keep water or a garden hose available and ready to use.
• Do not buy fireworks for your children and NEVER let them light the fireworks.
• Even sparklers require direct adult supervision as sparklers can get up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, equivalent of a blow torch.
• Teach your children to have a healthy respect for fireworks.

Safety is always my number one priority. Make sure it is yours as well so that you and your family can have a safe and fun 4^th of July.  I wish you a very Happy 4^th of July.