You only live once: DAFB officials provide tips for safe July 4 Published July 2, 2008 By Senior Airman James Bolinger 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- For motorcycle and grill safety tips scroll to the bottom of the article. Also, remember that personal fireworks are illegal in Delaware, but if you are traveling to a state where personal fireworks are legal, you'll find several saftey tips listed in the article below. Dover Air Force Base safety officials and first sergeants are reminding Airmen and DoD civilians here to be safe as they enjoy their Fourth of July weekend, which begins Friday. Tech. Sgt. Harold Joe, 436th Airlift Wing Safety Office, suggests everyone who celebrates this weekend follow some simple safety precautions and risk-management techniques to avoid a tragedy. It is not unusual to hear of Airmen working long shifts and then driving long distances to make sure they get an early start on their holiday plans. Sergeant Joe urges Team Dover members to put safety first in everything they do, during this weekend and throughout the year. "If you are planning to drive long distances, ensure that you're well rested before starting," he said. "Driving and fatigue are a lethal combination, so avoid using practices such as driving with your window down or turning up the volume on your radio to stay awake. If you are tired, simply stop and get some rest." Unfortunately, past years show that alcohol-related incidents are also a common problem on the Fourth of July. "Everyone likes to celebrate, but drinking and driving is by no means a way of celebrating," said Master Sgt. Terrie Chesney, 436th Mission Support Squadron first sergeant. "Give someone else your keys or use a designated driver. It is illegal to drink and drive; you could spend a night in jail and face serious legal consequences if you are caught." Driving volunteers will be available this weekend to provide rides home for those who need them. Just call Dover Airmen Against Drunk Driving at 677-6000. Sergeant Joe also reminds Airmen that if they are going to drink, to do so responsibly. In addition to driving, alcohol doesn't mix with activities such as swimming, boating or during other sports related activities. "Use the buddy system while swimming and only swim in areas with lifeguards," said Sergeant Joe. "Consider taking a boating safety course if you plan on operating a boat and always enter the water feet first if you are not absolutely sure of its depth. Do not push your limits in the water; many experienced swimmers drown each year. " A tradition for many families every Fourth of July is fireworks. However while fireworks are fascinating for children and adults, the personal use of fireworks without a license is illegal in the state of Delaware. For Airmen or civilians traveling to other states which allow the personal use of fireworks, safety officials suggest the following precautions. - Always read and follow manufacturer's directions for the safe use of the device. - Do not allow children to light fireworks. - Do not throw fireworks. Place them on the ground or platform they are being launched from, light them and quickly leave the immediate area. - Do not attempt to light fireworks that have misfired. Instead, soak them with water and throw them away. - Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby for emergencies. - Securely store fireworks in a cool, dry place, well out of the reach of children. By being good wingmen, using these safety tips and applying good risk management, all Team Dover members can make this Fourth of July a safe and fun holiday weekend. Riding this weekend? Don't forget to wear your equipment - Protective helmet - Safety or impact-resistant glasses or full-face shield - Gloves - Sturdy leather shoes or boots that go over the ankle (no open-toed shoes) - Brightly colored upper outer garment (fluorescent lime-yellow, fluorescent red-orange or fluorescent red and must have reflective properties during the hours of darkness, and must be clearly visible and not covered up) Grill masters don't forget safety during your cook out - Read the owners manual before using your new grill - Only use your grill outside in a well-ventilated area - Place grill on a flat surface for stability - Use long-handled grill tool - Wear clothing that won't easily catch fire and use flame-retardent mitts when necessary - Be prepared to extinguish flames if necessary - Never leave a grill unattended once lit - Keep children away from hot grills as the grill body can remain hot for up to an hour after use