With the Fourth of July less than two weeks away, the Tinker Fire Department is asking people to be mindful when celebrating America’s birthday.
“We want everyone to celebrate safely,” said Carles E. Williams II, Tinker Fire and Emergency Services inspector.
Williams said for anyone who plans to use propane and charcoal grills, to follow these tips:
Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors.
Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
Grills should be positioned at least 10 feet away from siding, deck railing, and out from under leaves and overhanging branches.
Keep matches, lighters and starter fluid out of the reach of children in a locked drawer or cabinet.
Keep children and pets away from the grill area: declare a three-foot “kid-free zone” around the grill.
Use long barbeque mitts and long-handled grilling tools to protect from heat and flames when cooking.
Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited by heat.
For additional information, contact the Tinker AFB Fire Prevention Office at 734-3981.
Williams cited the 2017 annual U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which shows that U.S. hospital emergency rooms saw about 13,000 people for fireworks-related injuries that resulted in eight deaths. Additionally, the report stated that an estimated 8,700 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments between June 16 and July 16, 2017, alone.
Metro fireworks shows
Although Tinker AFB strictly prohibits fireworks, there are several fireworks shows in the surrounding area.
Midwest City: Joe B. Barnes Regional Park
The City of Midwest City is hosting its annual Tribute to Liberty festival starting at 6 p.m. at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park, 8700 E. Reno Ave. Fireworks will start around 9:45 p.m.
Moore: Buck Thomas Park
The City of Moore is hosting its annual Celebration in the Heartland festival from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Buck Thomas Park, 1903 NE 12 St. The event is free and will feature food, helicopter rides, vendors and a volleyball tournament. Fireworks will begin at dusk.
Oklahoma City: State Fair Park
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic will celebrate its 13th annual Red White & Boom concert, a free Independence Day celebration concert and fireworks display, July 2 at State Fair Park. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.; the concert starts at 8:30 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 10 p.m.
Edmond: LibertyFest
The 47th annual LibertyFest is slated to begin June 27 and end July 6. The Fourth of July celebration includes 10 events at different locations in Edmond, with a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. July 4 at Hafer Park.
Yukon: Freedom Fest
The City of Yukon is hosting its annual two-day Freedom Fest event July 3 and 4. The annual celebration is held at Yukon City Park, 2200 S. Holly, and Chisholm Trail Park, 500 W. Vandament. The fireworks show starts at 10 p.m. July 3 and 4. Attendees are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Mustang: Firefighter’s Freedom Celebration
On June 29, the City of Mustang is hosting its annual Firefighter’s Freedom dinner and celebration at 6:30 p.m. at Wild Horse Park. Tickets are $5 (free for children under 5) at the gate or you can purchase at the Fire Department in advance beginning the second week of June. The dinner includes hot dogs, chili, watermelon, chips, cookies and a drink. There will be live music, fire truck rides and lots of other fun things for children. The evening ends with a fireworks show at dusk.
For a complete list of other festivities, visit travelok.com.