The Fourth of July can be an enjoyable day if you are responsible enough to handle all of the things that could possibly go wrong. As we get older, our usual hangouts for the Fourth usually happen at the beach or the lake. As you may know, this particular day each year is normally full of many accidents due to people being under the influence.
I know it's easy for people to say that "I would never do that" or "something like that would never happen to me", but sometimes these things happen due to lack of responsibility. It's super important to know your limits when it comes to alcohol and to always look out for your family and friends to hopefully prevent something bad from happening. Unfortunately, sometimes these accidents that we never expect to happen to us come to us without warning. It's better to be safe than sorry.
This list of Do's and Don'ts below shows the good and the bad side of how this day could go. Just make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and can confidently be the responsible one in a time of need.
Do's :
1. Take lot's of pictures. You'll regret not having anything to post the next day.
2. Drink responsibly.
3. Go see a firework show, or buy some fireworks with your friends. We're truly never too old for fireworks.
4. Wear plenty of sunscreen and don't forget to hydrate! Water is your BFF.
5. Keep your phone charged in case of any emergencies.
Don'ts
6. Don't drive ANYTHING under the influence. Most accidents that happen on the fourth have to do with drinking.
7. Don't stay in! Go outside. Even if that means standing outside for ten minutes just to watch fireworks.
8. Don't let yourself or anyone else handle fireworks while intoxicated.
9. If you like to spend the fourth on the beach or lake, make sure you pick up after yourselves. Don't be the assholes that littered on the fourth.
10. Whatever you do, DO NOT show up on Old Row.
Hopefully this list inspires you to go out and have fun, but most importantly to stay safe. It's completely normal and expected to have a great time on this day, so please enjoy it! Just celebrate responsibly. It's sad seeing articles almost every year of tragic accidents that happen on this day, due to the selfish decisions we make whenever alcohol is involved.
Let's make this day as safe as possible. No more accidents, tragedies or irresponsible humans. So instead, lets have fun, take tons of pictures and watch some beautiful fireworks without anyone getting hurt.
Happy Fourth of July!
