Summer safety tips on grilling, fireworks

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate a patriotic parade in the morning, a barbecue with friends and family in the afternoon and a fireworks display at dusk.

However, before cookouts are planned, the Hanscom Fire Department reminds base housing residents to always use proper grilling procedures and adhere to base safety practices when cooking outdoors.

"On base, propane or charcoal grills must be used a minimum of 10 feet from a structure or combustible material," said Capt. Robert J. Kenyon, fire inspector. "Grills must be used outdoors only and never left unattended. Children and pets should also be kept a minimum of three feet away."

In addition, Kenyon cautioned, when lighting a grill, be sure the grill lid is open beforehand to avoid combustion, and when lighting charcoal grills, use only charcoal starter fluid and never add charcoal fluid to an already lit flame.

"It's important to have a hose or fire extinguisher nearby in the event of an emergency," the fire inspector said.

Lastly, he reminds personnel that before attending a local firework display be sure to properly discard hot coals.

"It's critical to allow the coals to cool completely before disposing in a metal container," he said. "The coals could ignite and start a more serious fire while away from home taking in local fireworks."

Once everything is safe at home, Hanscom residents should understand the strict policies on the use of fireworks on and off base.

"Use and possession of fireworks are strictly forbidden on base and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," Kenyon said. "Anything from sparklers to more sophisticated pyrotechnics is strictly against the law and punishable by fines and criminal prosecution."

In the event of a fire or any other emergency, the fire department urges residents to call 911. For more information about fire safety and prevention, call 781-225-5601.