Americans love to enjoy families, friends and July 4th events, as well as picnics, swimming and fireworks. Here are a few tips to help you and your family have a safe and healthy holiday.
Fireworks Fire and Sheriff
Only use fireworks that are labeled Safe & Sane and be extra careful due to the continuing dry conditions. It is illegal for fireworks to be used by anyone under age 18.
When lighting Safe & Sane fireworks:
- Light fireworks from the ground, not on elevated surfaces
- Do not use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials
- Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio, or under a tree or bushes
- Never attempt to re-light or "fix" fireworks
- Dispose of used fireworks in a bucket of water
- Have a garden hose ready
The majority of fires caused by fireworks are generally started by illegal or improperly used fireworks. Note that illegal fireworks explode, leave the ground, or send sparks more than 12 feet high. Safe and Sane fireworks bear the seal of the State Fire Marshal and are sold at legitimate fireworks booths.
Sacramento County allows fireworks to be set off between June 28 - July 5 only.
Report fires to 911. Report the use of illegal fireworks to 916-859-3775.
Food Safety
Many people will be firing up the grill and eating outdoors, so plan ahead to prevent food illness:
- Thaw food only in a 41 degree refrigerator, under cold running water or in a microwave
- Keep raw meats separate to prevent cross contamination and thoroughly wash anything that comes into contact with raw meat
- Keep meat cold up until it is being cooked
- Use a clean food thermometer to test doneness – different kinds of meat require different temperatures to be done
- Perishable foods should not be left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours
- For more food safety tips visit the Environmental Management Department website
Visiting Our Beautiful Parks
Sacramento County’s popular Regional Parks will be busy with extra visitors. To offset the costs of extra patrol and maintenance, from July 2 through July 4, the vehicle entrance fee will increase to $8 for single vehicles and $13 for oversized vehicles and vehicles towing watercraft. This fee increase does not affect Annual Parks Pass holders. Now is a great time to purchase an Annual Parks Pass.
Remember, children under 13 must wear a life preserver at all times in public waterways in the County. The use or possession of any type of fireworks is banned in all Sacramento County Regional Parks. Plus, there are several rules related to smoking, BBQs and open flames. Read the Parks July 4th news release for more information.
Pet Safety
- Keep pet indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area
- Remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful if chewed
- If you know that your pet is distressed by loud noises, consult with your veterinarian in advance
- Every year animal shelters are inundated with lost pets after July 4, so be sure your pets are wearing identification tags and are licensed to help with their prompt return
Visit the Bradshaw Animal Shelter website for additional information.
Most County offices will be closed Monday, July 4.
