Protect your guests, pets, and home during July 4th celebrations with these quick safety tips!
The 4th of July is a time to celebrate our country’s independence with backyard BBQs, dazzling fireworks, and patriotic celebrations. But for homeowners, it also comes with a few safety responsibilities and concerns to keep in mind… Whether you’re firing up the grill with family, watching fireworks from your porch, or hosting a backyard barbecue party for friends, there are a few safety measures you can take to help ensure your family, neighbors, pets, and home stay safe this Independence Day!
Here are some essential safety tips for Houston homeowners:
Firework Safety Tips for Homeowners
We get it, fireworks are FUN. But they are also dangerous—and in some places, illegal. So, remember to check your local ordinances before lighting anything up to avoid fines or hazards. And always make sure you are using them with the utmost care. And Smart tips for fun & safe fireworks at home:
- Keep a safe distance from each other when using fireworks.
- Fireworks should be handled by adults only.
- Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby and ready in case of fire.
- Maintain a safe distance from homes, trees, and other structures when lighting fireworks.
- Never try to relight a "dud" firework that didn’t go off.
- Soak used fireworks in water for at least 5 minutes before tossing them in the trash. Use a separate trash bag specifically for the fireworks.
- Attend a local firework display instead of setting off your own.
Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips for Homeowners
All the excitement and loud noises associated with the holiday can be stressful for pets. Unfortunately, the number of runaway and lost pets spikes during July 4th celebrations.
How to keep your pets safe during firework celebrations:
- Keep pets indoors in a small, quiet, secure room.
- Turn on calming music, white noise, or other familiar sounds (like the TV).
- Make sure your pets are wearing updated ID tags and their microchip info is up-to-date.
- Avoid feeding your pets scraps from the grill—some human foods can be toxic!
- Use calming treats, sprays, or vests for pets who get frightened of loud noises.
Backyard BBQ & Grill Safety Tips for Homeowners
Grilling is a classic part of any 4th of July celebration—but it’s also a leading cause of house fires during the summer. And no one wants to miss out on a firework show because their home was lit up instead…
Grilling safety tips for a fun backyard barbecue:
- Always grill outdoors and at a distance from your home, deck, or patio.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of flare-ups.
- Never leave a hot grill unattended.
- Clean grease and fat buildup from the grill regularly to prevent flare-ups.
- Make sure propane connections are tight and leak-free, if applicable.
- Make sure children and pets are kept away from a hot grill.
Bonus Tips for a Safe July Fourth Celebration at Home
- Check that your outdoor lighting is functional to prevent trips or falls.
- Clear debris and trim overgrown plants from walkways and your yard before guests arrive.
- Make sure there is plenty of water and shade available to help stay cool.
- Dispose of all trash and fireworks responsibly to prevent unwanted wildlife and wildfire risks.
A little preparation goes a long way, and with these Fourth of July safety tips, homeowners can celebrate with confidence knowing their home and loved ones are protected!
Looking for a home with the perfect yard for summer entertaining? Reach out to our team today—we’d love to help you find your dream space to celebrate every holiday!
Alexis Feezel is a results-oriented Marketing Coordinator responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all promotional strategies and activities to effectively market clients & listings and maximize sales.