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6-28-2010
Preparedness Facts of the Week
by Elizabeth Hall, Emergency Services Specialist - Kings County Office of Emergency Management
 

With the Fourth of July less than a week away, you have probably already heard the sound of fireworks in the distance in your neighborhood. I know I have. Whether they are the leftovers from last year, or those purchased in other towns, it does not hurt to go over some basic safety rules with your family each year

Printable Article (PDF) | CA Pyro Laws | CalFire Tips | Be Sparkler Smart | Fireworks Safety Poster
Video Link - The National Council on Fireworks Safety

 

CAL FIRE’s Office of the State Fire Marshal has the following tips:
 

Photo by CalFire
  • Always read directions.
  • Always have an adult present.
  • Use fireworks outdoors only.
  • Never use near dry grass or other flammable materials.
  • Light one at a time.
  • Keep a safe distance.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Never experiment with fireworks.
  • Have a bucket of water and a hose handy.
  • Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks.
  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.
  • Never carry fireworks in your pockets.
  • Fireworks are not toys.
 

Photo by The Baltimore Sun
Pet Precautions:

If you have pets, then you already know how they feel about fireworks. My cats will run and hide under the house, beds, or whatever keeps them out of site. My dog thinks she is protecting us by chasing after them while barking like a mad dog; even if they are a block away. It would be safe to say that this is undoubtedly not their favorite time of year. If you have experienced such drama with your pets, you probably already have an idea of what works best for you and your pets.
 
>>Some very basic tips to make your pets' fourth a little less stressful:
 
  • Do not take your pets to fireworks displays. As much as you would like to all go as a family, it is probably best they stay home in a quiet area. You may even want to leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to not only keep them company if you are out for the evening, but it also helps to drown out the sound of fireworks.
     
  • Do not leave your pets in a car by themselves.
     
  • Do not leave your pets unattended outside, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally would not leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain risking injury or death.
     
  • Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned quickly.
Photo by CalFire
Photo by Elizabeth Hall
 
 
Photo by Elizabeth Hall
 

Photo by thelightofthelowcountry.com
Resources:
 
Do your part for safety awareness by passing this information along to anyone you can think of who would benefit.

 Have a great week, and remember…… Be Responsible - Be Ready - Be Prepared!

Teaming Up for Emergency Preparedness
Elizabeth Hall

Office of Emergency Management
280 Campus Drive Hanford, CA 93230
(559) 582-3211, Ext. 2634
www.kingscountyoem.com
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