The 4th of July is a holiday unlike any other. However, the traditions that go along with its celebrations often present some unique safety risks. Between the fireworks, the summer sun, and the grill's open flames, there are several things you need to be careful about when celebrating this holiday.

If you want to have fun and stay safe while celebrating America's birthday this year, here are some important safety tips you should follow:

1. Enjoying Fireworks Safely

Fireworks are the cornerstone of July 4th celebrations, and they're also the day's most obvious safety hazard.

To prevent any accidents, there are several firework safety tips you should know. Things like retreating to a safe distance immediately after lighting a firework, having a hose or fire extinguisher on hand, and supervising children around fireworks are a few of the big ones, but you can check out this list of firework safety tips from the National Safety Council to see more.

2. Staying Safe in the Sun

July brings high temperatures in most parts of the country, so be sure to stay in the shade and stay hydrated if you're planning any daytime outdoor activities. Also, don't forget about using sunscreen to help prevent skin cancer and painful sunburns.

3. Grill and BBQ Safety Tips

Grilling on the 4th of July is almost as synonymous with the holiday as shooting off fireworks, but there are safety risks involved whenever you're dealing with open flames. To avoid accidental burns and fires, start by positioning the grill on level ground away from any flammable materials or structures. Be sure to clean your grill beforehand to prevent grease fires, and never leave the grill unattended while it's in use.

4. Pet Safety Tips

The loud noises of fireworks cause many pets to experience anxiety. In some cases, pets will even attempt to run away and escape the situation. Reports of lost pets spike every year around July 4th in the United States. To make sure your pets are safe and comfortable, be sure to keep them indoors during the fireworks. Choose a place that's quiet and far away from the noise. It's also a good idea to make sure your pet's ID tags and microchip information are up to date so that you can find them more easily if they escape.

Stay Safe and Enjoy the Holiday!

Celebrating the 4th of July is one of America's proudest traditions. By following the tips we've covered, you can ensure the next holiday is one to remember for all of the right reasons.