4th of July Safety Tips for Texas Families

Written by Thumann Agency on Jun 30, 2026
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a family outside celebrating 4th july

Celebrate Independence Day Safely and Make Memories That Last

For many Texas families, the Fourth of July means firing up the grill, spending the day at the lake, watching fireworks light up the sky, and making memories with family and friends.

It's one of the best weekends of the year. While it's a time to celebrate, let's remember to do it safely.

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the summer for travel, boating, backyard gatherings, and outdoor activities. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, drowning accounted for 76% of recreational boating fatalities, and 87% of those who drowned were not wearing a life jacket. That's a simple reminder that small precautions can make a big difference.

Whether you're staying close to home or heading out to enjoy everything Texas has to offer, here are a few practical tips to help keep your Independence Day memorable for all the right reasons.

 

Fireworks

Nothing says Fourth of July quite like fireworks, but they deserve plenty of respect.

Stay Safe

  • Only use fireworks where they are legal.

  • Read and follow all manufacturer instructions.

  • Keep children and pets a safe distance away.

  • Never hold fireworks in your hand after lighting them.

  • Never point fireworks toward people, homes, vehicles, or dry grass.

  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.

  • Never relight a firework that doesn't go off.

Know What to Do...

For a minor burn, cool the area under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Avoid using ice, butter, or creams.

If the burn is severe, affects the face, hands, feet, or large areas of the body, or if a fire starts that you cannot safely control, move everyone to safety and call 911.

 

Boating & Lake Days

Whether you're spending the holiday on Lake Lewisville, Lake Ray Hubbard, Lake Texoma, Possum Kingdom Lake, or another of Texas' beautiful waterways, a little preparation can make for a much safer day.

Stay Safe

  • Make sure there is a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for everyone onboard.

  • Children should always wear a properly fitted life jacket.

  • Never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol.

  • Check the weather before leaving the dock.

  • Carry plenty of drinking water.

  • Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.

 

Texas Law You Should Know

Texas law requires children under 13 years old to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket while aboard a vessel under 26 feet when it is underway.

Every boat must also carry enough approved life jackets for everyone onboard.

Not sure your child's life jacket fits correctly?

Watch our quick guide: https://youtu.be/h55hX8Jimcs?si=9ciQ8Voq217A7IH6

 

Know What to Do...

If someone falls overboard, keep them in sight at all times and throw them a flotation device immediately.

If someone has been pulled from the water and isn't breathing normally or is unresponsive, call 911 and begin CPR if you're trained to do so.

If your boat breaks down, stay with the boat whenever it's safe. It's much easier for rescuers to spot than a person in the water.

 

Backyard BBQs

A backyard cookout is one of the best parts of Independence Day.

Stay Safe

  • Place your grill well away from your home, fences, and overhanging trees.

  • Never leave a lit grill unattended.

  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away.

  • Clean grease from your grill regularly.

  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby if possible.

Know What to Do...

If a grease fire starts, never pour water on it.

If it's safe, turn off the gas supply, close the lid, and use the appropriate fire extinguisher.

If the fire spreads beyond the grill or you can't safely control it, move everyone away and call 911.

 

Holiday Travel

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

Stay Safe

  • Check your tyres, oil, and fluid levels before travelling.

  • Allow extra time for holiday traffic.

  • Wear your seatbelt.

  • Put your phone away while driving.

  • If you're drinking, arrange a designated driver or use a rideshare service.

Know What to Do...

If you're involved in a collision:

  • Check whether anyone is injured.

  • Move vehicles to a safe location if possible.

  • Exchange insurance and contact information.

  • Take photographs if it's safe to do so.

  • Contact your insurance company when you're able.

If anyone is seriously injured or the road is unsafe, call 911 immediately.

 

Beat the Texas Heat

Texas summers can be unforgiving, especially during long afternoons outdoors.

Stay Safe

  • Drink water regularly—even if you don't feel thirsty.

  • Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

  • Wear lightweight clothing and sunscreen.

  • Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.

  • Keep an eye on older adults and young children, who can become overheated more quickly.

Know What to Do...

If someone feels dizzy, weak, nauseous, or develops a headache, move them somewhere cool, encourage them to sip water if they're able, and help them cool down with a fan or cool, wet towels.

If their symptoms don't improve quickly, become worse, or they become confused, lose consciousness, have a seizure, or are unable to drink water, seek emergency medical help by calling 911.

 

Pools & Swimming

Whether you're at home or visiting a lake or pool, water safety should always come first.

Stay Safe

  • Never leave children unattended around water.

  • Wear life jackets where appropriate.

  • Avoid diving into unfamiliar water.

  • Keep rescue equipment nearby.

Know What to Do...

If someone is struggling in the water, call 911 and use a flotation aid if you can do so safely.

Once they're out of the water, begin CPR if you're trained and they're unresponsive or not breathing normally.

 

Don't Forget Your Pets

Fireworks can be stressful for our four-legged family members too.

Stay Safe

  • Keep pets indoors before fireworks begin.

  • Close curtains and windows to reduce noise.

  • Make sure they have fresh water and a quiet place to relax.

  • Check that collars and ID tags are up to date.

Know What to Do...

If your pet escapes, contact your local animal shelter, notify your microchip provider, and post in local lost pet groups.

If your pet is injured or appears seriously distressed, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic.

 

Have a Safe and Happy Independence Day

 

From all of us at Thumann Insurance Agency, we wish you and your family a wonderful Fourth of July.

We hope your holiday is filled with laughter, great food, spectacular fireworks, and time spent with the people you love.

Stay safe, enjoy every moment, and have a Happy Independence Day!

 

 

 

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