As we creep closer to New Year’s Eve, so does the excitement of ringing in the new year with a bright fireworks show. But remember, just because we humans love a great night sky show, it is the opposite for our furry friends.
Here are some tips that you can use to ensure you and your pets are safe during the fireworks show that is sure to light up the Lamar County sky tonight.
Safety tips to keep in mind
- If you plan on celebrating with your fireworks, it is always good practice to give your neighbors a heads up, especially if they have animals.
- Animals should be locked inside in a safe place from the noise in a quiet, sheltered, and escape-proof area at home.
- Make sure your safe place for your pet is on the opposite side of the house that you will be letting off fireworks from.
- Close the curtains or blinds and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction.
- Take pets for a walk before the fireworks begin. Some pets are too frightened to go out once the fireworks are popping, and this may lead to an “accident” later on.
- Make sure your pet’s ID is current. Your pets should always have proper identification tags, with current information, in case they get lost. Micro-chipping is strongly recommended.
- Keep children and animals away from the point of ignition, and ensure that someone is supervising.
- Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
- Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.
By taking a few extra minutes to ensure you, your family, friends, and pets are safe; you will be able to enjoy sending off the year that has passed and enjoy the year ahead with your own fireworks show.
