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Critical Days of Summer week six: Fourth of July safety

  • Published
  • By Sam Spooner
  • 17th Training Wing Safety Office
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Patriotism, apple pie, fireworks and family all wrapped up into one great weekend. To make sure everyone has a great time, here are some simple safety tips that may help people avoid injury and costly property damage:

Fireworks
· Use extreme caution when handling fireworks and read warning labels carefully.
· Observe local laws regarding use of fireworks.
· Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
· Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.
· Store fireworks in a dry, cool place.
· Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.

Driving
This is one of the deadliest holidays on the roads - second only to New Year's - and there will be a lot of people on the roads.
· Stay calm and drive defensively.
· Watch out for other drivers who are weaving or not using lights or signals.
· Whether driving out of town or locally, plan the trip.
· Be well rested when driving long distances.
· Inspect the vehicle before heading out on the road; this includes checking the tire pressure.
· Don't drink and drive. Have a plan, use the Wingman Card or call Airmen Against Drunk Driving at 654-AADD or 654-CARE.
· Look out for motorcyclists and pedestrians.
· Never leave pets or children unattended in vehicles. It only takes 10 minutes for the inside of a car to heat up 19 degrees and it will continue to rise; if it's 101 degrees outside, it can easily be 120 degrees inside the vehicle.

Boating
This is the busiest weekend on our waterways. Anyone participating in water sports or any kind of activity that has been determined by the Wing Safety Office or their commander as a high-risk activity must complete the Air Education and Training Command Form 410.
· Take a boating safety course if operating any kind of water craft and know the local laws and regulations.
· Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts.
· Don't drink and drive.

Swimming
· Know how to swim before entering the water and never swim alone.
· If at the lake, be cautious of where you're swimming.
· Never dive into water when you don't know how deep it is or what obstructions are lying under water.

Barbeque
· Don't use charcoal grills indoors - this includes vehicles, tents and campers.
· Keep meat chilled until it's time to cook it.
· Never reuse marinades that have been in contact with raw meat.
· Wash hands and work areas - clean preparation is essential.
· Use caution when lighting and using propane or charcoal grills.

Heat stress
· Stay hydrated, monitor yourself and others regularly.
· Take the appropriate work/rest cycles.
· Watch out for the 3 D's of heat stress: dizziness, dehydration or disorientation.
· Be alert for symptoms such as dry, hot skin with no sweating, seizures or convulsions, upset stomach or vomiting and weakness

Apply risk management to all activities this weekend. Also, take the time to remember and pray for our friends and family who remain deployed away from home in defense of our nation. Have a great Fourth of July!