The Georgia Department of Public Health is reminding Georgians and visitors to stay safe and healthy while celebrating the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

With temperatures expected to climb into the 90s, DPH says heat safety should be a top priority. People are encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, use sunscreen, avoid long periods in direct sunlight, and check on older adults, neighbors, children, and pets. Anyone showing signs of heatstroke, including dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, or confusion, should receive immediate help and 911 should be called.

DPH is also urging families to practice food safety during cookouts by washing hands and surfaces, keeping raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods, cooking meats to the proper temperature, and keeping perishable food chilled. In weather above 90 degrees, food should not sit out for more than one hour.

Health officials also remind residents to swim safely, keep a close watch on children around water, avoid swallowing pool or lake water, and check advisories before swimming in natural bodies of water.

To prevent mosquito bites, DPH recommends using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and removing standing water around homes.

Fireworks safety is also important. DPH says fireworks are best left to professionals, and children should never handle fireworks or sparklers. Sparklers can burn at around 2,000 degrees and cause serious injuries.

The Department of Public Health says a few simple precautions can help families enjoy a safe and healthy Fourth of July weekend.