Fourth of July holiday safety speak

  • Published
  • By Maj. Mark Muchenberger
  • 436th Airlift Wing interim chief of safety
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Every summer, folks pause to remember and celebrate the birth of our nation. We pay tribute to those who risked their lives in order to create a free society. Additionally, many of us recall those who have gone before, since the final signature was written on that declaration 236 years ago. This year, as we join with family and friends during the Fourth of July holiday, please keep safety in mind so that there will be many celebrations to come.

Remember to use care while traveling. Other drivers may be tired, distracted or even may be aggressive. While barbecuing, keep that grill away from the house and in a well-ventilated area. Keep an eye on those children; my child is 100 percent full-throttle any time he is awake. Be careful with children near grills, pools and roadways. According to statistics, the biggest threat to your teenagers is a motor vehicle accident in their first three years of driving. Make sure they have a plan, and remind them not to use a cell phone, in any manner, while operating the vehicle.

Using some common sense and having an awareness of what is happening around you can keep you and your family safe during the holiday and throughout the summer. Enjoy that barbecue and pool. Relax outside or watch your favorite movie. Enjoy the time with your family or see the flyover and fireworks at the downtown Dover celebration. Above all, remember, and be safe.