Summer Safety Tips

Stay Safe with Guidance from NFPA & the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, but it’s also a season that comes with specific safety challenges. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Pennsylvania public safety officials offer the following tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks can be spectacular—but also dangerous. They burn as hot as 1,200°F and are responsible for thousands of injuries and more than 16,000 fires annually.

NFPA Fireworks Guidelines:

• Leave fireworks to professionals. Attend public displays and remain at least 500 feet away.

• Never touch unexploded fireworks. Contact local authorities instead.

• Exit any area where amateurs are using fireworks.

Consumer Fireworks in Pennsylvania:

• Class C (consumer-grade) fireworks such as Roman candles, firecrackers, and bottle rockets are now legal for sale to residents.

• Display fireworks with more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic composition are restricted to licensed professionals with a municipal permit.

Use Restrictions:

• Must not be used on private or public property without owner consent.

• Prohibited within 150 feet of an occupied structure.

• Cannot be discharged from vehicles or toward people, vehicles, or buildings.

• Illegal under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Important Fact: Even sparklers, often seen as harmless, can cause third-degree burns.

Barbecue Safety

Outdoor grilling is a summer staple, but it also poses fire hazards.

General Grilling Tips:

• Only use grills outdoors and place them away from structures and overhanging branches.

• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet from the grill area.

• Never leave a grill unattended.

• Always open the grill lid before lighting.

Charcoal Grills:

• Use chimney starters or charcoal starter fluid—never add fluid to an already lit fire.

• Let coals cool completely before disposal in a metal container.

Propane Grills:

• Inspect the hose for leaks annually using a soap-and-water test.

• If you smell gas, stop grilling and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.

• Wait at least 5 minutes to re-light if the flame goes out.

Did You Know? July is the peak month for grill-related fires. Thermal burns account for about half of all grill-related injuries.

Water Safety

Whether swimming or boating, water activities require careful attention.

Water Safety Tips:

• Swim only in approved areas and supervise children at all times.

• Ensure children learn how to swim.

• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or using personal watercraft.

• Never rely on inflatable toys or swimming aids for safety.

Boating Fuel Safety:

• Turn off all engines and smoking materials before fueling.

• Ventilate for at least four minutes before restarting the engine after fueling.

Scooter, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Safety

Active play and travel are great exercise—but come with risk.

Protective Gear:

• Wear a properly fitted helmet and safety gear (knee, elbow, and wrist pads).

• Pennsylvania law mandates helmets for all bicyclists under age 12.

Safe Riding Habits:

• Ride during daylight on smooth surfaces.

• Use hand signals and obey all traffic laws.

• Stop completely at driveways and intersections.

• Always ride with the flow of traffic.

Visibility and Preparedness:

• Wear bright clothing and use reflectors.

• At night, equip bikes with a front light and rear reflector.

• Carry water, snacks, a cellphone, and a basic repair kit.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a fun and incident-free summer. Stay alert, stay prepared, and help others do the same.

For additional seasonal safety tips or community events, contact your local fire or EMS department.