With Fourth of July fun comes possible risk

  • Published
  • By Gaby Jimenez
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Independence Day is just around the corner and that means celebrations, picnics, parades, camping, relaxing at the lake, cookouts and family gatherings.

However, fireworks won't play a major role in the holiday this year. Dry conditions from an ongoing drought here make fireworks, including sparklers, too risky to use and violators could face a fine of up to $1,000.

"With the dry conditions that we are experiencing, the best thing the community can do is go watch the local firework display and let the professionals handle them. A small firework or even a sparkler could catch the grass on fire and burn two or three acres before anyone even has a chance to call the fire department," said David Isbell, 47th Civil Engineer Squadron.

Local residents will still have the opportunity to see a fireworks show which is scheduled to take place at 10 p.m. July 4 at the Alfredo Gutierrez Amphitheater.

This year, the Air Force Safety Center has designated the time period of May 27 through Sept. 6 as the Critical Days of Summer.

"The Critical Days of Summer is a challenge to Airmen to make this year safer than last year. The most important objective for this summer's campaign is protecting military and civilian personnel and their families," said Ricardo Espinoza, 47th Flying Training Wing safety and occupational health specialist.

The campaign highlights the importance of practicing safety during high-heat weather conditions. Extreme heat conditions allow for potential heat-related illnesses and injuries, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

"If you must be out in the heat, you should limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. If you exercise outside, drinking two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour would be beneficial. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat," said Paul Blair, 47th FTW ground safety manager.

Defending yourself against the blazing sun and wearing proper clothing is another safety concern to keep in mind during the holiday weekend.

"Wearing a wide-brimmed hat protects you from the sun and keeps you cooler and of course, wearing sunblock of SPF 15 or higher is a good choice. The most effective products say broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection on their labels," said Blair.

Barbecues are also a popular form of celebrating Independence Day. While barbequing, taking extra safety precautions is an important part of the festivities.

"A big safety tip when having a cookout is to have fresh food. Storing meats and other perishables in an insulated cooler will prevent bacterial growth. Also, keep grills away from flammable materials, like trees, and keep your children away from the grill. Gas grills can have an interior temperature of more than 800 degrees," said Espinoza.