JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
Fireworks have been a tradition of America's Independence Day celebrations. But if you want to see fireworks, play it safe and go to a public show put on by experts.
Use the fireworks display as a teaching tool; for example, share with them the lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner. Most of all, remain safe if your family tradition includes lighting fireworks.
While you are enjoying your grilling, family time, and fireworks, take time to remind your kids what this holiday is about. The lighting and display of fireworks came with a price to many men and women sacrificing for their kids and future generations.
Most of all, remain safe if your family tradition includes lighting fireworks. Below are 10 fireworks safety tips to teach to your kids if you do decide to light your own fireworks off a military installation. Be sure to check with your local community fire departments on active burn bans, etc.
- Fireworks packaged in brown paper are made for professional displays – avoid buying.
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities, especially with sparklers.
- Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire and to douse used fireworks before discarding in trash.
- Never allow young children to play or ignite fireworks.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- Never try to re-light or pickup fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never place a part of your body directly over a firework device when lighting.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
The use of fireworks are not allowed on any Joint Base San Antonio installation, in accordance with AFMAN 91-201, 28 May 2020. It states: “Active duty Air Force personnel (on- or off-duty) and on-duty Air Force civilian personnel will not take part in the transportation, storage, set up or functioning of commercial fireworks for on-base fireworks displays.”
For more information about Fireworks safety, visit the National Fire Prevention Association website at www.nfpa.org/education or contact the JBSA fire prevention offices at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston at 210-221-2727, at JBSA-Lackland at 210-671-2921, or at JBSA-Randolph at 210-652-6915.