Safely enjoy the Fourth of July Published June 29, 2006 By Lorie Bellamy 436th Airlift Wing Safety Office DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, many will travel outside the local area and almost everyone will enjoy the fireworks or other activities surrounding Fourth of July celebrations. While you're having fun, remember some simple safety precautions to avoid a tragedy this holiday. Driving If you are planning to drive a long distance, ensure you are well rested before starting. Common sense says no one should plan a long drive after working an entire shift. Driving and fatigue are a lethal combination. Avoid using practices to stay awake such as driving with your window down or turning up the volume on your radio. If you are tired, simply stop and get some rest. Motorcycle Safety Motorcycle safety continues to be a high-emphasis area. Each year, valuable lives of Air Force members are lost in motorcycle mishaps. Ensure you receive the required training before operating a motorcycle, wear all required personal protective equipment and operate within the posted speed limits. Alcohol Alcohol-related incidents are common during the Fourth of July holiday. Everyone likes to celebrate, but drinking and driving are by no means a way of celebrating. Plan ahead: give someone else your car keys and use a designated driver. The Airmen Against Drunk Driving program is available on the weekends to provide you a ride in the local area. To obtain a ride home, call 677-6000. Do not make a poor choice and possibly ruin your life or another innocent person's life. Alcohol & Swimming Also remember, alcohol does not mix with other activities such as swimming, boating and other sports-related events. Stay sober while involved in these activities to ensure your safety. Water safety is critical. Use the buddy system while swimming, swim in areas with lifeguards, take a boating safety course if operating a boat, and always enter the water feet first when you are not absolutely sure of the depth. It is also important to know your limitations. Do not push your limits while in the water; many experienced swimmers drown each year. Fireworks Fireworks displays are fascinating for children as well as adults. Protect children from the danger of firework displays. Remember the personal use of fireworks without a license is illegal in the state of Delaware and many other states. However, if celebrating in a state where it is legal to have personal firework displays, here are some precautions to follow: • Always read and follow the manufacturer's directions for safe use of the device. • Do not allow children to light fireworks. Do not throw fireworks. Place them on the ground or whatever platform they will launch from, light them, and leave the immediate area as quickly as possible. • Do not try to light fireworks that misfired. Instead, soak it with water and throw it away. • Keep a water bucket or hose nearby for emergencies. • Securely store fireworks in a cool, dry place well out of the reach of children. Use common sense and safety principles to enjoy this Fourth of July holiday with family and friends. Remember to be cautious and apply the Operational Risk Management concept to activities, especially when doing something different or dangerous.