Israel: Stay Safe on Independence Day

This holiday weekend, many families will be taking advantage of Long Island’s beaches, traveling to visit family, and celebrating with friends. I hope you enjoy your celebrations of our freedom and independence.

Below are a few resources to ensure that you and your family have a happy and safe holiday.

• Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals. Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. (For more information, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Fireworks Safety site.)

• Always wear a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating. Adult-sized life jackets will not work for children. (For more information, visit the US Coast Guard Boating Safety site.)

• Food cooked on the grill often browns very quickly on the outside. Use a food thermometer to ensure that meats have reached a safe internal temperature. (For more information, visit the Barbecue and Food Safety tips from the USDA.)

• Put sunscreen on before you go outside, even if the weather is slightly cloudy or cool. Make sure to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. (For more information, visit the CDC’s Sun Care and Skin Cancer Prevention site.)

• If you will be drinking, make sure that you have a designated driver in your group or have the number of a local taxi company. (For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Preventing Impaired Driving site.)

On the Fourth of July, we should always take the time to thank the brave men and women who make our freedom possible. For more information, visit my website at http://israel.house.gov.

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!

Sincerely,

Steve Israel