Picnic food, lawn games, bounce houses, and fireworks can combine to create a family fun event for your ministry. But each activity comes with its own set of risks. With a strong focus on safety, you can enjoy the excitement of the holiday while minimizing injuries and illness.
1. Use of Fireworks. The safest way to enjoy a fireworks display is from afar. Doing so reduces much of the risk that comes with fireworks at a Fourth of July event. More than 11,000 people are treated in ERs for injuries associated with fireworks each year. Injuries to hands, fingers, head, face, ears, and eyes are the most common.
If you decide to host a fireworks display on your property, the safer option is to hire a professional pyrotechnician. Because fireworks are dangerous explosives that can cause fires or serious injuries if mishandled, do not allow a ministry volunteer, employee, or attendee to launch fireworks for the crowd. Also, take the time to learn about and comply with local ordinances and safety codes.
Here’s a good reminder: Sparklers are fireworks, too. They account for more than 25% of fireworks-related ER visits.1 Sparklers can ignite clothing and cause severe burns to hands and feet when dropped.
Fireworks and fire pits don’t mix. This is a recipe for a very dangerous situation. Never use fireworks and fire pits at the same time, even if the two seemingly are not near each other. Fireworks are too unpredictable.
2. Medical emergencies. Have a CPR trained staff member or medical team volunteers on hand to respond in case of medical emergencies. Ideally, at least two people should be present during the event. Appoint someone within the ministry to provide critical help with emergency calls. Keep a stocked first aid kit and a CPR kit nearby.
3. Heat exhaustion. Fourth of July activities are often outside, which means people may be vulnerable to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Set aside space in the shade or an air-conditioned room where people can take a break from the sun, cool down, and rehydrate. Consider stocking a few instant cold packs to quickly cool a participant suffering from overheating. Encourage water breaks during sports, games, and other activities.
4. Food poisoning. Don’t let bad food spoil the fun. If your event includes a picnic buffet, be sure to address food safety guidelines. There are the four steps to help prevent food poisoning: clean, separate, cook, and chill.2 Clean and sanitize food preparation areas. Cook, store, and serve food at correct temperatures; hot foods should be held at 140° F or warmer, and cold foods should be held at 40° F or colder. Do not leave food out for more than two hours. Label food items for guests with allergies. Recognizing Food Poisoning Symptoms: Download the poster
5. Injuries from inflatables. Bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses and floating inflatables can lead to serious injuries if improperly set up, left unsupervised. Only rent inflatables from a reputable company that employs people who are trained and experienced. Require written instructions on how to safely use the equipment.
Pay attention to weather—high winds and inflatables are a dangerous combination. And always contact your insurance agent to discuss your ministry’s liability exposure for inflatables prior to the event.
6. Review Property and Liability Coverage. Before hosting a Fourth of July event, check with your insurance agent, ask questions, and be thorough in describing your plans. Your agent can address issues, if any, and options for coverage and policy limits to fit the occasion.
1 “Fireworks Safety.” National Security Council. Accessed 18 May 2023. https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/fireworks
2 “Fast Facts About Food Poisoning.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 17 May 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/food-poisoning.html
Updated May 2023
The information provided in this article is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.
