Keep Yourself And Your Home Safe This Independence Day

The Fourth of July is just around the corner and that means Americans everywhere will be out in celebration. While the weekend is sure to be packed with barbecues and parties, all that fun can quickly end if someone gets injured or property is destroyed in the process.

To help you make the most of your Independence Day weekend, CoverHound is here to provide you with some practical safety tips so you can make lasting memories this year:

Don't drink and drive

While you already know driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal, the Fourth of July is one of the most dangerous times of the year to be on the road. If you plan on partaking in any celebrations, avoid alcohol consumption if you drive. Not only can you put yourself and others at risk of injury or death when you get behind the wheel while intoxicated, but you can also see your auto insurance rates skyrocket after a DUI. Find an alternative mode of transportation, such as a taxi or public transit. Planning ahead is the key to staying safe.

Be cautious around water

Between the heat and the humidity, swimming is a popular way to cool off during the summer. If your weekend celebrations include going to the beach or a nearby pool, you need to understand the risks involved with bodies of water. Small children and those who can't swim well will need a safety system to avoid injury. The best thing you can do is to be watchful over everyone in the water and teach your children about basic safety around water, such as not running around a pool or diving into shallow water.

It can also be a good idea to keep inflatable devices nearby that can be easily thrown to swimmers who need help. If you're with small children, keep them away from pool drains and other openings that could pose a danger.

Don't walk away from your grill

Perhaps nothing is more closely associated with Independence Day than hotdogs and burgers. These delicious American classics are staples of the holiday, but you need to be cautious while grilling. To reduce the risk of a fire, don't walk away from your grill while cooking.

Take precautions with firework safety

If you plan on setting off fireworks this year, be sure to take precautions to protect yourself and others from the potential dangers of explosives. In addition, you will need to be more cautious about causing damage to your home or property, or risk facing bigger consequences with your homeowners insurance provider. While fireworks are iconic for the Fourth of July, if you don't know how to launch them properly, it's better to avoid the risk altogether. Here are a few ways to reduce the dangers of lighting fireworks.