Happy Independence Day!

In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States. Wikipedia.com

July 4th Fireworks Safety

Please treat fireworks with respect, read all of the cautions and warnings and use common sense. Lighting fireworks indoors, throwing them from automobiles and lighting multiple devices at the same time can lead to accidents and are not how fireworks are intended to be used.  Always obey all local laws pertaining to the use of fireworks. If you see someone misusing fireworks, stop them. Show them the correct way to use consumer fireworks and do not ever use professional fireworks or illegal explosives. Do your part and everyone will be safer. 

• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
• Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket).
• Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
• Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

July is National Ice Cream Month!

Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984. He also appointed the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day. Reagan recognized the popularity of ice cream in the United States (90% of the nation's population consumes ice cream) and stated that these two events should be observed with "appropriate ceremonies and activities." Ice cream is also the perfect summer time treat for patients in braces! 

“Text 2 Like” on Facebook

 Be sure to become a fan on our Orthodontic Specialists of Florida Facebook Fanpage!!! To become a fan, simply Text like florida4braces to 32665 or log onto our website at www.Florida4Braces.com and click on the Facebook icon link. Then  click on the “Like” button on our Fanpage and you will instantly become a fan!  This is an easy way to stay up to date on all of the new and exciting features that Orthodontic Specialists of Florida has to offer!

Patient Referral Program

To show our appreciation, each time you refer a patient you will receive a credit of one month's payment. This credit will be applied to your account the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces. There is no limit as to how many patients you can refer. The patient referral program still applies for the accounts that are paid in full. Paid in full accounts will receive a $75.00 gift card the month after the referred patient is fitted with braces.

Water Safety

 This summer, take steps to stay safe around water. Swimming is the most popular summer activity. The best thing you can do to help your family stay safe this summer is to enroll in age-appropriate swim lessons. Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone. Even at a public pool or a beach with a lifeguard, use the buddy system! Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. Be sure to teach any child to always ask permission to go near water. (www.redcross.org/watersafetytips)

Summer Camping Safety Tips

Orthodontic Specialist of Florida wants you to be safe this summer. Here are a few Summer camping safety tips:

*Never approach wild animals. They may look cute and harmless enough but they are very unpredictable and can be very territorial and protective.

*Look out for snakes, spiders and other critters. Watch where you are walking, be careful when picking up sticks or rocks and look around before taking a seat.

*Wear sunscreen and sunglasses. You can get sunburn in a very short period of time even on overcast days.

*Pay attention to weather conditions. It can change very quickly.

*Bring a First Aid Kit. Keep supplies in a well marked, durable, waterproof container.

*Practice good fire safety. NEVER leave fire unattended and ALWAYS have a bucket of water, a shovel and a fire extinguisher nearby and ready to put out a fire.  (nationaloutdoors.com)