JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Independence Day is a great time to celebrate and enjoy the summer weather. Of course, with the warmer weather and the 4th of July traditions, cookouts, parties and fireworks are common events. Below you will find some tips on fireworks and cooking out, which may make the difference between happy memories, or your plans going up in smoke.
When cooking out, make sure that you get the grill ready first. Whether gas or charcoal, ensure the grill is clean and free of any debris or ash from last season. Next, position the grill with 10 feet of clearance from anything combustible.
Make sure the grill is in good working order, and ready for use. Keep a three-foot clear zone for all children and pets. After you are finished cooking, turn off your gas at the bottle, or put out the charcoal in your grill. However, keep an eye on it; even though it is no longer in use, temperatures will still be hot enough to ignite combustibles and cause injury.
Within a four year span, fire departments in the United States have responded to around 8,200 home fires which involved barbecue grills. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, these fires led to almost 60 deaths. Therefore, it is extremely important to practice fire safety, especially when cooking with barbeque grills because they have the potential to cause fires, injuries and even death if not used correctly.
Fireworks are fun, but can be dangerous, and are usually enjoyed better when left to the professionals. The NFPA advises against the use of consumer fireworks. Although legal in some states, fireworks are extremely dangerous, and can lead to injuries, deaths and property damage.
In 2010, the highest injury rates were for children under the age of 15, and 8,800 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms. Also in 2010, an estimated 15,500 reported fires were started by the use of fireworks. These numbers are incredibly high, yet people still insist on using fireworks.
Here on Joint Base Langley-Eustis, as well as the Landings at Langley, fireworks (to include sparklers) are not authorized. If you plan to use fireworks, and they are legal in your community, make sure you follow proper safety precautions, and always have adult supervision.
There are other safe alternatives for holiday fun, such as attending a public fireworks display, of which there are several in our area to choose from. For more information, visit www.hamptonroads.com and look for local events on July 4. This is a safe and relaxing opportunity where you can enjoy the holiday with your family.
Finally, remember that the use of fireworks on base is prohibited. Some of the surrounding communities allow certain types of fireworks, and others do not allow any. When in doubt, consult your communities' website. The Counties of James City, Gloucester, and York, as well as the Cities of Williamsburg, Hampton and Newport News all list what is, and is not, allowed for their respective jurisdictions on their government websites.
If you have any questions or need more information about fire safety, give call the Langley AFB Fire Prevention Office at (757)764-4275.