Celebrate Smart: Fourth of July Safety Tips from Bogin, Munns & Munns
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate freedom, community, and summer fun. Whether you’re heading to a backyard barbecue, enjoying a day on the water, or catching a fireworks show, we hope your holiday is filled with great memories — not preventable injuries.
At Bogin, Munns & Munns, we’re proud to stand up for our communities across Florida. That includes helping you stay safe and informed. Below are practical safety tips to help make your Independence Day fun, festive, and accident-free.
Grill and Food Safety: Stay Cool and Cook Smart
🔹 Keep It Cold
Hot summer temps create the perfect conditions for foodborne illness. Store raw meats and perishables in coolers with plenty of ice, and don’t let them sit out for more than two hours — or one hour if it’s over 90°F.
🔹 Grill to the Right Temp
Use a food thermometer to ensure meat is cooked thoroughly:
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Beef, pork, lamb, veal: 145°F
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Ground meats: 160°F
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Poultry: 165°F
Undercooked meat can harbor dangerous bacteria — don’t take the risk.
🔹 Separate and Sanitize
Avoid cross-contamination. Use different utensils and plates for raw and cooked foods, wash your hands often, and clean prep areas regularly.
Firework Safety: Leave It to the Pros
Fireworks are a Fourth of July favorite — but they’re also a leading cause of injuries this time of year. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional display.
If you choose to use fireworks at home, take these precautions:
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Only adults should handle fireworks.
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Never point fireworks at people or pets.
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Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
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Don’t attempt to relight “duds.”
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Soak used fireworks before tossing them in the trash.
And don’t forget — sparklers burn at over 1,200°F, which can cause severe burns in seconds. Consider safer alternatives like glow sticks or LED wands, especially for kids.
Sun and Heat Safety: Don’t Let the Day Overheat
July in Florida can be scorching, so keep heat-related illnesses in mind:
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Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and reapply often.
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Stay hydrated — drink water throughout the day.
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Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
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Dress smart in lightweight, breathable clothing and hats.
Pet Safety: Protect Your Four-Legged Friends
Fireworks, crowds, and unfamiliar foods can all spell trouble for pets. Keep them calm and safe:
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Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks.
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Don’t feed pets table scraps — common holiday foods can be toxic.
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Make sure they’re wearing updated ID tags.
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Take a photo of your pet in case they get lost.
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Consider calming aids if they’re prone to anxiety.
Stay Safe, Stay Celebrating
We hope your Independence Day is full of joy, reflection, and relaxation. But if the unexpected happens, Bogin, Munns & Munns is here to help. Our legal team is proud to stand up for your rights, whether you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or need guidance navigating a legal issue.
From all of us at Bogin, Munns & Munns — stay safe, celebrate smart, and have a happy Fourth of July.
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