Sheriff urges people to stay safe over holiday
By John Joyce
Published in News on July 1, 2013 1:46 PM
In a message to Wayne County, Sheriff Carey Winders cautioned citizens to have fun safely this summer, specifically over the Fourth of July weekend.
Travel peaks around the Independence Day holiday, Winders said.
"Traditionally, during the July 4th holiday, our highways experience one of the highest traffic flows of the yea," he said, offering tips for driving, as well as swimming and fireworks safety.
Driving
* Always shift your attention every few second, constantly scanning the road ahead of and behind you. Never fix your gaze on one point on the road.
* When passing another motorist, always glance at the front wheel of the vehicle you intend to pass. You will gain extra time to respond should you notice the vehicle start to veer.
* Always signal your intentions with turn signals, break lights, head lights, and horn.
* Never follow too closely. Increased speed increases stopping distance, so be sure to leave a cushion of space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
* Practice the "Golden Rule" when driving. Be courteous and tolerant of other drivers.
Fireworks
* Never give fireworks to small children, and follow the instructions on the packaging.
* Keep a supply of water close-by as a precaution.
* Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye-protection.
* Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight a "dud."
* Store fireworks in a cool dry place away from children and pets.
* Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
* Stay 500 feet or more away from professional firework displays.
* Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.
Swimming
* Make certain a lifeguard is on duty.
* Post CPR instructions, 911 and emergency numbers in the pool area.
* Be sure all drains are covered and properly installed.
* Take frequent breaks and wear sunscreen.
* In a beach setting, stay in areas where lifeguards are present.
* If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore.