07/01/2025
Fireworks and BBQ Safety
The Fourth of July and other summer holidays are a great time for Airmen to relax, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy barbecues and fireworks. But celebration should never come at the cost of safety. Each year, preventable injuries from grilling and fireworks sideline thousands of Americans—including service members.
As part of the Air Force's commitment to readiness and resilience, it’s critical to stay alert, prepared, and safe while celebrating.
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Fireworks Safety: Fun Without the Fallout
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), fireworks injure over 10,000 people each year—many with burns, eye damage, and hearing loss. Service members are especially encouraged to avoid any activity that could affect deployability or operational capability.
Fireworks Safety Tips for Airmen:
• Avoid consumer fireworks altogether—leave it to the professionals
• Have a fire extinguisher, hose, or water bucket nearby at any fireworks event
• Protect your eyes and ears if attending a display—use earplugs and safety glasses
• Never relight a “dud” firework—wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance from all fireworks, even sparklers
• Call 911 immediately if someone is injured or a fire breaks out
Remember: Sparklers can burn at over 1,200°F—hot enough to cause third-degree burns.
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BBQ & Grilling Safety: Cook Smart, Stay Safe
Grilling accidents spike every summer, often due to poor placement, unattended cooking, or faulty equipment. A single spark or grease flare-up can lead to injury or property damage.
BBQ Safety Tips for Airmen:
• Inspect your grill for leaks or damage before use
• Keep grills away from overhead power lines, awnings, and combustible materials
• Never leave a grill unattended—keep a close eye on children and pets nearby
• Use long-handled utensils to avoid burns and reduce exposure to hot surfaces
• Grill in a well-ventilated area—never inside garages or enclosed spaces
• Clean grease and fat buildup to reduce fire risk
Tip: Have a Class B fire extinguisher nearby when grilling.
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Summer Safety & Airman Resilience
Being safe during fireworks and barbecues isn’t just about avoiding injury—it’s about maintaining mission capability, personal resilience, and unit cohesion. An off-duty injury can result in lost training time, reduced physical readiness, and even long-term health impacts.
How Safety Supports Readiness:
• Avoids preventable injuries that impact duty status
• Reduces stress and enhances mental readiness
• Builds a culture of accountability and risk management
• Preserves time with family without unexpected ER visits
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Final Checklist for a Safe Celebration:
• Skip the DIY fireworks—attend a public show
• Grill away from power lines, walls, and dry vegetation
• Keep extinguishing tools (water, sand, extinguisher) ready
• Supervise kids and pets closely
• Use personal protective equipment when needed
• Stay sober and aware when handling fire or food prep
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This summer, make safety part of the celebration. Fireworks and BBQs are traditions worth keeping—but only when done responsibly.
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Learn More Below:
https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/summer-safety/fireworks?srsltid=AfmBOopPCjZ8iZzaZdR3h-zpjEctiO3EQAyJa4l7UF_JmbmL18HQkWfR
