Fun, fellowship and fireworks are on tap for this week as America celebrates the Fourth of July for the 247th time on Tuesday.
Enjoying hamburgers and hot dogs with loved ones and watching fireworks – or setting off your own – are as American as it gets.
But if you are going to host your own pyrotechnics show, carelessness can lead to lost fingers and lives if not done safely.
According to the state commissioner of insurance and safety fire office, up to 75 percent of all fireworks injuries occur during the four-week period surrounding Independence Day.
About 7,000 people – mostly children – are treated in emergency rooms each year for fireworks-related injuries.
And, on just the Fourth, fireworks start more fires nationwide than all other causes combined.
Those with pets will want to take other precautions. A good rule of thumb is to board them July 2-5 at dusk.
According to the Humane Society of the U.S., pets are more sensitive to loud noise, flashing lights and strong smells.
The group recommends keeping pets indoors, with a radio or television turned on, during fireworks celebrations.
They added that veterinarians may be able to help with medications to soothe pets that have anxiety from holiday celebrations.
This is perhaps our most precious American holiday, when we can all appreciate an ideal of forming a democracy that will stand the test of time. We have seen adversity in our country, but our free way of life has endured for almost a quarter of a millennium.
We deserve this time to reflect and thank God and our service men and women for the freedom we enjoy every day. Please take time to thank a veteran and their family for their sacrifice and service for our country
Happy Independence Day to all.