As we get ready to celebrate Independence Day, the City of Norwalk wants everyone to enjoy a fun, safe holiday and offers these tips over the upcoming holiday: 

Sparkler, fountain and Fireworks Safety

Fireworks/sparklers injure more than 11,000 people a year. More than half of these injuries are burn-related. While sparklers and fountains are allowed, Connecticut law and the City’s code do not allow fireworks to be set off by non-licensed users. Fireworks can disrupt neighbors and may cause stress and anxiety in pets or military veterans. Please be considerate and respectful and do not launch fireworks. If residents hear or see fireworks in their area, they should call the Norwalk Police Department at (203) 854-3000 and provide the exact location to ensure the fastest response.

• Never disassemble or try to make your own fireworks.
• Don’t point sparklers, or fireworks at yourself or others.
• Never allow young children to handle sparklers to prevent firework-related injuries. Sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees and can cause serious injuries. 
• Always keep a portable fire extinguisher close by. Also, keep a water hose or buckets of water nearby to put out fires.
• If fireworks malfunction, don’t relight them! Douse and soak malfunctioning fireworks with water then throw them away.
• Resist the urge to bring your pet to a fireworks display. The safest place for them is at home where it’s familiar, quiet and not crowded.

 Grilling Safety

July is one of the peak months for grilling fires. Enjoy grilling your favorite meals this summer while also keeping your family safe.

• Never grill indoors, in the garage, in any enclosed area or on a surface that might catch fire.
• Check gas grill hoses for cracks, holes and leaks. Gas leaks, blocked tubes, and propane tanks can be a cause of grill fires and explosions.
• Don’t leave grills unattended. Keep children away from grills. 
• Keep the grill at least two feet away from decks, siding, branches and any outdoor equipment that can catch fire quickly.
• Keep anything that can catch fire- oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging or towels- away from flames.  

Beach Safety Tips

Dehydration and sunburn can happen fast at the beach. Protecting yourself from the sun is one of the most important beach safety tips. 

• Remember to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcoholic beverages, which can be dehydrating and put you at added risk if you’re swimming. 
• Use sunscreen often, and reapply after swimming. The spray-on kind is especially useful when you’re wet and sandy.
• Bring protective clothing and an umbrella.
• Avoid the midday sun, which is most intense.
• Bring your shades and wear them; your eyes can get sunburned, too. Make sure your sunglasses are UV certified.
• Severe summer storms can move in quickly. Stay tuned to weather updates when you’re at the beach or on the water.