For two hundred and thirty three years, “United States of America” has been synonymous with “freedom.” We should be proud of the great things our country has done to further freedom’s cause throughout our history. We should indeed take this Independence Day holiday to reflect on how our freedom was won and remember that there is always a price for it.
Our Soldiers, Civilians, Partners and Family members traditionally celebrate this holiday with boating, water skiing, swimming, fireworks, barbecues and travel on the nation’s busy roadways. Unfortunately, the holiday is often marred by tragedy due to preventable accidents.
Leaders, directors and supervisors are reminded of the requirement to conduct safety briefings prior to the extended holiday weekend. The effects of speed, fatigue, alcohol and attitude with regards to POV and motorcycle accidents should be at the forefront of safety briefings.
Encourage those within your charge to take advantage of local recreational activities and to emphasize the risks of mixing alcohol and/or drugs with water-related activities. Remind all to assess their swimming abilities and to swim in only designated areas with lifeguards. Take responsibility if using watercraft for its safe operation and the safety of all occupants.
I urge all members of the workforce to use the 5-step composite risk management process to maintain safety awareness at all times. There are several safety tools available at the Combat Readiness/Safety Center that should be used to help combat the needless loss of life on our roads and highways. The automated POV risk assessment tool (TRiPS), which may be found at https://crc.army.mil/
home/, should be completed for all traveling for this and other holidays.
To help you celebrate Independence Day safely, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety offer the following safety tips:
Always read and follow label directions.
Have an adult present.
Buy from reliable sellers.
Use outdoors only.
Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
Light only one firework at a time.
Never re-light a “dud” firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).
Never give fireworks to small children. If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.
Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
Stay away from illegal explosives.
Do not allow careless acts to cloud your judgment. Have a safe and fun filled Independence Day holiday.
E-Mail This Article
Print This Story