The 4th of July is one of the best days of summer—grills are fired up, music is loud, red-white-and-blue outfits are everywhere, and the sky ends the night with fireworks. But in all the fun, it’s easy to forget that July 4th is also one of the busiest days for ER visits across the country.

So before you light the sparklers or dive into that extra-hot jalapeño burger, let’s talk about how to keep this Independence Day fun, festive, and injury-free.

🔥 1. Fireworks Are Fun... Until They’re Not

We get it—fireworks are cool. But they’re also literally explosives.

Your best bet? Skip the backyard show and head to your local fireworks display (they’re bigger, louder, and don’t require cleanup).

If you absolutely must light your own:

• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.

• Don’t relight duds—just let them fizzle in peace.

• Light one at a time and back it up like you just saw a ghost.

• Never aim fireworks at your cousin. Even if he started it.

🍔 2. Grill Master Status = Safety First

There’s nothing more all-American than burgers on the grill—but let’s not add “burnt eyebrows” to the menu.

Grilling tips to keep the fire where it belongs:

• Keep kids, pets, and wild uncles at least 3 feet away.

• Grill at least 10 feet from your house (that siding didn’t ask for drama).

• Check gas lines before you spark anything.

• Flip with long-handled tools like the grilling boss you are.

☀️ 3. Beat the Heat (and the Burn)

Uncle Sam wants YOU… to wear sunscreen. And drink water.

Hot day hacks:

• Reapply sunscreen like it’s your job (SPF 30+ please).

• Rock a hat and shades like a summer celeb.

• Don’t just drink beer—hydrate with water too.

• Find shade or bring your own (hello, patriotic umbrella).

🌊 4. Water You Thinking?! Be Safe at the Pool, Lake, or Beach

Cannonballs are fun. Chaos? Not so much.

Water safety checklist:

• Always keep eyes on the little ones.

• Life jackets for the not-so-strong swimmers.

• Don’t swim (or drive a boat) while buzzed.

• Follow the signs—they exist for a reason.

🚗 5. Don’t Let Your Ride Ruin the Night

Designate a driver before the second round of margaritas. Your future self (and your friends) will thank you.

Pro tips:

• Rideshare apps are your best friend.

• Don’t let tipsy friends “feel fine”—take the keys.

• Sleep over if you need to—it's called adulting.

🎉 Final Thought: Fireworks, Not Fire Alarms

We love a good party. But we love seeing you healthy and happy even more.

So light the grill, cue the playlist, rock the red-white-and-blue, and let’s make this 4th of July one to remember—for all the right reasons.

Stay safe, have fun, and happy 4th from all of us at Align! 🎇