July Fourth Safety Tips Published June 27, 2013 By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain 17th Training Wing Safety Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- July Fourth is commonly known for fireworks, but there are other safety concerns to watch out for this holiday. Keep these safety tips in mind to prevent a possible mishap. Driving · According to Texas Department of Transportation, Independence Day traditionally ranks among the deadliest holiday periods on Texas highways as a result of alcohol-related crashes. · During the 2012 July 4th enforcement effort, Department of Public Safety troopers made 1,294 DWI arrests. · DPS enforcement also resulted in 13,700 speeding citations, more than 2,200 seat belt/child safety seat citations, 750 fugitive arrests and 518 felony arrests between June 28 and July 7, 2012. · A lot of people will be on the roads this holiday. Keep your cool and drive defensively; watch out for other drivers weaving or not using lights or signals. · Plan your trip, whether driving out of town or going somewhere locally. · Be well rested when driving long distances. · Inspect your vehicle to include tire pressure. · Don't drink and drive; have a plan; use Wingman Card or AADD. · Look out for motorcyclists and pedestrians. · Never leave pets or children unattended in vehicles; in just 10 minutes, a car's temperature can increase by 19 degrees and will continue to rise; for example - 101 degrees outside = 140 degrees inside a vehicle. Boating · Take a boating safety course if operating any kind of water craft. · Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. · Don't drink and drive. · Complete an AETC Form 410 if participating in water sports or any kind of high risk activity as determined by Wing Safety or your Commander. · Know the local laws and regulations. Swimming · Know how to swim before entering the water and never swim alone. · If at the lake, be cautious of where you are swimming. · Never dive into water when you don't know the depth or what obstructions may be under the water. Barbeque · Do not use Charcoal grills indoors- this includes vehicles, tents, or campers. · Use caution when lighting and using propane or charcoal grills. Heat Stress · Stay hydrated, monitor yourself and others regularly, and have appropriate work/rest cycles · Watch out for the 3 D's of heat stress: dizziness, dehydration, or disorientation · Be alert for symptoms: dry, hot skin with no sweating, upset stomach or vomiting and weakness, seizures or convulsions. Remember to apply risk management to everything this coming weekend.
