Sun, picnicking and bombs bursting in air are all honored Fourth of July traditions. Amidon wants you to celebrate a safe and fun Independence Day this week. Follow our tips to maximize your good times and minimize holiday risks.   The sun is strong! Wear sunscreen, and reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating. Many skin experts recommend using a sunscreen with zinc or titanium, which protect your skin by physically blocking pores. If you’re planning an outdoor party, be sure to include some shady spots for sun-sensitive guests.   Be careful with fireworks. If you live somewhere you can legally set off fireworks and plan to have your own pyrotechnic show, keep them far from people’s houses, cars or dry grass. Camping and fireworks do not mix! Nor do alcohol and fireworks. We recommend leaving fireworks to the professionals and enjoying official fireworks programs with your family, friends, and the rest of your town or city.

Respect the flag. If you’re displaying the American flag, follow traditional guidelines. The flag is displayed from sunrise to sunset. If you’re going to fly the flag at night, it should be properly illuminated. When hanging your flag, keep in mind that the field of stars should be on the upper left-hand side. Don’t ever let your flag touch the floor, water, ground, or anything else beneath it.   Value your health. The Fourth of July is about celebrating our independence from Great Britain and all the things America stands for. It’s not about ruining your health with junk food. While some junk is sure to be consumed, plan to include healthful dishes at your Fourth of July party. Try healthy versions of traditional favorites, such as a Mediterranean spin on potato salad where you substitute heart-healthy olive oil for mayonnaise. Wear red, white and blue.     Show your Independence Day spirit in a blue tank top and red shorts, or a red and white dress set off with blue jewelry. Sapphires and garnets set in white gold are closest to the colors of the flag’s stripes, but rubies or sterling silver will look good, too. And, of course, diamonds match everything and have a sparkle reminiscent of fireworks. Amidon can help out with the perfect Fourth of July jewelry, such as this gorgeous sapphire and diamond ring or these garnet earrings.     Whatever you do on the Fourth, have fun, be safe, wear your patriotic jewelry, and be glad for the opportunities America provides!