The 4th of July is a time many people all over the country are celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Many people here in Texas enjoy floating the river, hosting a barbeque celebration, and spending time with friends and family. As this day has been a long honored tradition of celebration, it has also been a day that safety is overlooked. This 4th of July we want to you to keep your safety and the safety of others in mind during your celebrations. Below are some helpful reminders to guide you through the holiday.
Be A Cautious Driver
If you plan to drive to a party or an event on the 4th July, be prepared for traffic. This day is likely to have a large number of vehicles on the roads. If you’re behind the wheel, be patient, adhere to speed restrictions, watch for pedestrians, and any potential hazards. Look out for roads that have been blocked off for parades and take extra care near highly congested areas. If you are traveling during the holiday, be sure to prepare you and your vehicle for the trip. Be sure to perform a maintenance check on your car before heading out. Always have an alternate route planned should your original route have problems. Make sure you keep yourself well rested, hydrated, and fed during your trip.
Don’t Drink and Drive!
As always, never drink and drive. If you are going to be celebrating, be sure to plan a safe way home ahead of time. If you are a designated driver, be sure to drive cautious and look out for other drivers on the road. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists. Be aware of your surroundings and look for potential hazards in order to avoid them. If you need a safe way home, use a rideshare program, a taxi, or call a family member or a friend. Holidays that are closely related to alcohol consumption have higher crash rates and fatalities. Just in 2016, the 4th of July weekend had 41 fatal crashes according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
Firework Safety
If you’re thinking about using fireworks this 4th of July, make sure you’re aware of restrictions in your local town or city, and follow safety guidelines. Fireworks may look incredible, but they can also be dangerous. If you’re attending an event or display, stay behind designated barriers at all times. If you live in Bexar County, there is a posted list of the prohibited use of fireworks within the county. You can view the list of prohibited use of fireworks here.
However, if you live in the city of San Antonio, remember the use of fireworks is illegal. Be sure to check your city’s restrictions on acceptable use of fireworks. Just because fireworks are legal in Bexar County, does not mean it is legal in your city. If you are within a city that allows fireworks, make sure that you are using them safely.
- Always keep a safe distance from the fireworks
- Read cautionary labels on the fireworks
- Keep children away from fireworks (even if they are not lit)
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix
- Properly dispose of used fireworks
- Do not forget about your pets:
- Don’t bring your pet of any size to a fireworks display
- Be sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during a fireworks display.
- Never shoot fireworks of any kind near pets.
Call The 4s!
Should you need us, you can always contact us at (210) 444-4444, (956) 444-4444 or (361) 999-9999. The 4’s are with you! Davis Law Firm is here 24/7 for you! Our team of legal representatives offer free initial consultation. This year, make sure you do everything possible to have fun without putting your safety or the safety of others at risk.