by G.L.F. Gammey

Created on: June 19, 2008

July 4th is more than cookouts, picnics, and fireworks. We celebrate our nation's birth and independence on this day. July 4, 1776 was the day we declared our independence from Britain and became a democratic nation. The United States of America would become known as the land of the free and the home of the brave', offering refuge to those seeking freedom, independence, and, what has been called, the American Dream'. We are not a nation of one color or ethnicity but we are a diverse nation of many characters and nationalities who celebrate our differences and similarities under one nation.

The fourth of July is a time for celebration in commemoration of our nation's birth. These celebrations may include cookouts, picnics, and fireworks. As summer feasts ensue, the necessary precautions must be taken to ensure a healthy celebration.

The summer heat can become our worst enemy when we bring our food outside to cook. Without realizing it, we are becoming susceptible to a wide variety of germs and bacteria during our cookouts.

There are numerous precautions we can take throughout our summertime festivities that will prevent germs and bacteria from interfering with our summertime cookouts.

Precautions to take during a cookout at home
1.When carrying raw and cooked food, different plates should always be used.
2.The temperature of the refrigerator should be checked regularly. This temperature needs to be below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce the possibility of germ growth.
3.Leftovers should be stored in shallow, airtight containers, exposing food to as little air as possible.
4.Dirty sponges need to be disinfected. This can be done by running them through the dishwasher or washing machine.
5.Every household should have and use at least two cutting boards one for meat and the other for everything else. It is possible for a cutting board to comprise 200 times more bacteria than a toilet seat.
6.Meat should always be put in the fridge to marinate and never marinate partially cooked meat.
7.The grill used for the cookout should always be scrubbed before the cooking begins.
8.Meat should not be precooked before grilling it.

Precautions to take during a cookout on the road
1.Avoid puddles of water by the sink in public restrooms which can be packed with germs.
2.During long trips, don't let the cooler get lukewarm. To prevent this from occurring, surround the food with frozen water bottles, keeping the food as cold as possible.

Although the summer holidays are exciting with the prospect of many cookouts and/or picnics, there are several precautions that need to be made to ensure the safety of our families and friends. Let's have fun celebrating our independence day without worrying about being sick. There is enough worry in this world without adding to it.

REFERENCES

1.Independence Day July 4th. http://www.usacitylink.com/usa/
2.Safe at the plate: germs like summer cookouts as much as you do. Make sure you don't invite them. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1608/is_7_20/ ai_n6155540

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