Financial well-being June 28, 2018 By
The 4th of July is fast approaching and firework stands are popping up like weeds! For many families, this time of year is fun-filled and action-packed with huge colorful explosions.
We all know this special holiday can very easily break the bank if you do not budget and limit yourself. When you factor in kids, it only gets worse! There are many cheap and practically free ways to still have a “blast” on this great country’s Independence Day.
Here are a few tips for those of you who absolutely cannot go without buying at least one firework.
- Budget yourself by deciding how much you can spend, and take only that amount of cash to the firework stand. That way you cannot spend more even if you wanted to.
- Leave the credit cards at home! You do not have to get the biggest most impressive fireworks they have, get something within your means.
- When it comes to the kids, the fireworks stand will have inexpensive baskets of assorted fireworks that will keep them entertained and happy for most of the afternoon.
If you don't want to spend money on fireworks, or maybe you are saving for something else, here are a few tips for you.
- Find friends or family members you can spend the 4th with and watch their fireworks. It should be a great time with no cost to you.
- Check out local events to see if there is a free fireworks show near you. All you have to do is put a little gas in the car, grab a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy the free show!
As far as safety tips go, here are a few tips to help you stay safe while having fun:
- Never direct a firework towards someone - no matter how big or small.
- Avoid throwing or holding fireworks since most of them are fully intended to be lit and explode on the ground.
- If you are simply enjoying the show, moving back 30 yards should be a safe distance. The further back you are, the less likely that an injury might occur.
- If you are the one doing the lighting, be sure the fireworks are not too close as they may knock each other over and redirect; once safely lit, run! Also, keep a bucket of water close by. You are literally playing with fire!
- Absolutely - do not under, any circumstances, attempt to manufacture your own fireworks in any way. They are already dangerous enough as it is, and the likelihood of a catastrophic malfunction heightens when you tinker with explosives.
We hope you have a SAFE, fun, and inexpensive Independence Day!
