Stay safe during these popular summer activities

With summer fun in full swing, it's important to keep in mind the safety of ourselves, our family and our friends. Remember that it is important to maintain social distancing, even while outdoors. Keep your social circle small to limit your risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. As cases continue to rise, the only way to help limit the spread is to stay home and limit interaction with those outside your household.

Fireworks are often a big part of our 4th of July celebrations. In order to stay safe, keep the following in mind:

• Never use fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• With all fireworks distance is important. The farther you are away from an explosion the better.
• As a rule, never look down the barrel of a firework. That is like looking down the barrel of a loaded gun.
• All fireworks should be used under adult supervision.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• When using fireworks, treat them as if the unexpected can happen.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and water hose nearby.
• Let young children use glow sticks instead of sparklers. They can be just as fun but don't burn at the 1,200 degrees that sparklers do.

Additionally, spending time on the water is a great way to relax and enjoy the summer. Help keep yourself and your family safe by following a few simple guidelines.

• Always wear a life jacket when in or around the water, particularly while boating.
• Never use alcohol or drugs while swimming or boating.
• Always keep your eyes on kids while swimming.
• Never swim alone.
• Be mindful of where you are swimming in a lake or river; maintain distance from boats and be cautious of any river current.
• Give other boats and swimmers plenty of space when driving a boat.
• Never sit on the front of a pontoon or boat while the engine is running.
• Remain seated in the boat when the boat is in motion.