Tag: Fourth of July

Gearing Up for America’s 250th Birthday

Posted on by Jordank

#America is about to #celebrate its 250th birthday. It’s the anniversary of the publication of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and its subsequent reading in each of the 13 original colonies — a momentous event in the history of the world.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

That call was truly revolutionary — a radical shift away from the top-down monarchies of the past that eventually helped cement democratic rule in nations throughout the world. That’s something to celebrate.

Planned observations may not rival the Bicentennial’s 200-year celebration, when kids (including your author) painted their fire hydrants red, white and blue; Johnny Cash served as Grand Marshal of a huge parade in the nation’s capital; and the Freedom Train roamed the country.

But there are still plenty of ways to observe Independence Day with reverence and patriotism. You can celebrate by learning about some of the courageous individuals who contributed to the United States’ separation from Britain; kids will find their stories inspiring and you’ll have conversational tidbits for your next cookout and fireworks display.

America 250 is inviting communities to join America’s Block Party, a two-day festival with a flagship live event in Los Angeles starring Queen Latifah, Chris Stapleton and The Smashing Pumpkins. The party will promote a Giving 4th, a new tradition created to make Independence Day an annual day of #charitable #giving.

Speaking of charitable giving, there may be no better way to honor #freedom and #liberty than to #donate to the #veterans who fought to preserve it. ClothingDonations.org makes it easy by #picking up lightly used goods and reselling them to fund valuable #veterans programs throughout the country.

Whatever you choose to do in #celebration — be it a #parade, fireworks/drone display, cookout or a day of rest — you will be exercising those inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Have a safe and happy Fourth!

Don’t Become a Fireworks Statistic

Posted on by Jordank

Each year in the U.S., about 7 people die from injuries related to fireworks, and almost 10,000 get treated in emergency rooms. “Of those treated, 42% suffer burns, 19% suffer eye injuries and 22% suffer injuries to their head, face and ears. “If you do choose to use fireworks, always read and follow warning labels, wear safety glasses, never light with people nearby, avoid looking down canisters, never let children play with fireworks and never point at other people,’’ says UCHealth’s Dr. Nathan Hamburger. “If you are injured, immediately seek help from the emergency department.” Better still, enjoy a professional display from a safe distance. #FireworksSafety

Don’t Create Litter with Fireworks Debris

Posted on by Jordank

If you’re planning on having an amateur #fireworks display to celebrate the #Fourth of July, remember that the cardboard, plastic and other debris they leave after igniting is #trash. Left unswept, that #litter can make itself into the ecosystem and become an eyesore, a health hazard and a danger to marine life. “Leftover trash from fireworks can pose major risks to marine animals when it enters the ocean,” the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says. “If you launch it, pick it up” — or join a post-Fourth of July cleanup to keep litter in check. #FireworksSafety

Examine the Alternatives to Fireworks

Posted on by Jordank

#Fireworks displays can go from dazzling to dangerous when they hit dry kindling, says Inside Climate News. Fireworks start thousands of accidental fires nationwide every year, including an estimated 18,500 on the #Fourth of July mostly from fireworks mishaps or campfires. With climate change making many locations hotter and drier, fireworks use is getting more risky. Many fire departments — especially in the hot, dry Western states — are trying to phase out fireworks and replace them with synchronized drone displays and other entertainments. Consider the alternatives when celebrating! #FireworksSafety

Even Legal Fireworks Can Be Dangerous

Posted on by Jordank

#Fireworks laws vary by state, but any form of firework can be dangerous if used carelessly. Sparklers account for the largest percentage (14%) of fireworks injuries annually — more than mortar-style shells and firecrackers. To keep your Fourth of July festivities safe, never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, says the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Light fireworks one at a time and step back to a safe distance quickly. Never attempt to relight or pick up a firework that fails to ignite. And keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or mishaps. #FireworksSafety