Independence Day honors the birthday of the United States of America and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It's a day of picnics and patriotic parades, a night of concerts and fireworks, and a reason to fly the American flag. Remember that we are still the greatest nation in all the world and there are kids out there on the battlefield as we speak giving their lives for us. So let that flag fly and let it fly proud.
As you can imagine, the fourth of July holds a special place near and dear to our hearts at Revolution, and it's a great time to have family fun. But please, when it comes to fireworks, enjoy them at a professional display, and don't let your kids of any age play with them. They're more dangerous than you might imagine. In fact, every year there are almost 10,000 injuries in the United States from fireworks, and at least 1,000 lead to permanent damage. Sparklers for example can reach temperatures of 1800 degrees, hot enough to melt gold. And firecrackers can be unpredictable, even exploding inside of children's pockets when temperatures are high. Also, the fire danger her in California and other places, it's best just to forego even the "safe and sane" and enjoy the professional displays.
I've got an idea. If you really want to see something cool, go to your local Kwik-E-Mart and get yourself some Diet Coke and some Mentos. Then CLICK HERE on this link and learn how to make one of the most awesome displays you'll ever see. The most damage you're going to do is get a wee bit sticky but heck, it's better than losing a finger or two or having your house burn down.
And remember this... While the family is oohing and aahing in the back yard, the family pets may be frightened out of their wits and spend this weekend under the bed, in the bathtub or the basement, cowering, shaking, drooling and seeking safety and comfort. Some will injure themselves, or even get themselves into life threatening situations in their panic. My dog Toby gets freaked out at this time of year. While cats are rarely affected, dogs often experience panic at loud noises such as thunder, gunfire and firecrackers. Fireworks raise havoc with a dog's supersensitive hearing, causing some to jump out of windows, leap or dig under fences, throw themselves through barriers, or chew their skin until it's raw. And they may also bolt out an open door to become lost but never found. If you think noise anxiety is not a problem, imagine standing in front of speakers at a Metallica concert with your hearing aids turned to full power. You get the picture. So take care of your pets and be sensitive to their needs!The best defense against Fourth of July problems is a good offense. Enjoy a great 4th, and have a happy holiday! Let that flag fly!
