Outdoor safety paramount during summer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan Fowler
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  During the summer months people need to keep in mind safety especially since children are out of school and, in general, people spend more time outdoors.

"The incidents usually associated with summer are mishaps such as tripping or falling over children's toys, wires, and other hazards. Additionally, accidents involving children at play grounds, heat stroke or exhaustion, barbeque accidents are associated with the change in season," said Joe Kirk, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron housing facility chief.

"Accidents due to carelessness and not paying attention to ones surroundings are common during the summer," said Mr. Kirk. "The key to avoiding hazards such as tripping over objects is for people to familiarize themselves with their surroundings and learn what dangers are out there."

Familiarizing oneself with their surroundings should also include familiarizing themselves with fire safety including barbecue safety.

"Some of the biggest incidents that occur are a result of unsupervisored or over fueled barbeques and indoor cooking fires," said Mr. Kirk.

"I have seen residents who have accidentally burned down their homes because of this," said Mr. Kirk. "People need to keep a close eye on their barbecues and never use too much charcoal or lighter fluid."

One of the biggest misconceptions dealing with barbecues has to do with the grease trap.

"Water should not be used on grease fires because the grease will splatter and allow the fire to expand," said Mr. Kirk. "People should a fire extinguisher available or attempt to smother the fire."

Though barbecue safety is essential during summer, another concern is protecting children who are out of school.

"Parents must maintain constant supervision of their young children," said Mr. Kirk. "Children can get hurt while playing outside.

"If parents have some of the equipment at their homes, such as swings or slides, they must make sure it is properly built and sturdy," said Mr. Kirk. "Some equipment can tip over if improperly grounded."

Since children will be spending much more time outside, parents need to be on the look out for heat stroke or exhaustion. It gets very hot and humid in Japan and it is essential to remain properly hydrated.

"The main thing people must do is to familiarize themselves with their environment, safety requirements and not be careless," said Mr. Kirk.

For more information, refer to 374 Air Wing Pamphlet 32-8 available at the housing office, 225-5429.