Residents encouraged to be safe over July 4 holiday

Escambia County, Ala. Sheriff officials are reminding residents to be safe and take precautions to ensure the safety of the community during the July 4 holiday.

Sheriff Heath Jackson said in a release that they caution anyone traveling during the holiday to always wear their seat belt, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“Instead, plan for a designated driver to get you home safely,” Jackson said. “Not only do you risk your life when you drive impaired, but you also endanger the lives of other drivers and passengers.”

Jackson added that fireworks can pose a fire and safety hazard to those who use them.

Before shooting fireworks, review the following safety tips from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• after fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device;

• always read warning labels and performance descriptions before lighting a firework;

• ensure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing or using them;

• keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap;

• never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks;

• never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse, and move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks;

• only light fireworks one at a time; and,

• only use fireworks outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles and never point/throw fireworks at anyone.

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