Be Careful on the 4th of July

The following is a release from the city of Minnetonka:

It’s a beautiful sunny day and the deck is ready for guests.

Lawn chairs are where they should be, the lawn is mowed and the yard is perfect. The meat is heaping on the platter, and the cooler is stocked. Friends arrive and the fun begins. Time flies, dinner is served and the sun goes down. Family and friends pack it up for a night of fireworks.

The Minnetonka What if? public educators want to remind you how quickly this day can go bad. Every year, fire departments respond to Fourth of July disasters that could have been prevented by following these safety tips:

• Keep charcoal grills at least 15 feet from structures while in use.
• Keep gas grills at least 18 inches away from combustibles.
• Never use lighter fluid directly on hot coals.
• Make sure your charcoal ashes are cool before disposal.
• When barbecuing, have a fire extinguisher handy.
• Keep water (hose or bucket) handy while enjoying fireworks.
• Don’t re-light a “dud.” Wait 10 minutes, then soak it with water.
• Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.
• Only use legal fireworks.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!