In 5 everyday safety essentials for summertime patrol, Andrew Hawkes shares some basic reminders about keeping safe during the hot days and nights of summer. In addition, Tom Burrell discusses floodwater safety for cops, which also has some excellent reminders especially since many of our Independence Day celebrations take place near picturesque bodies of water.
The months of June, July, August and September tend to bring a wee bit more of ‘the crazy’ than is typical in the ‘dead of winter.’ The Independence Day holiday in particular can increase exponentially the number of intoxicated knuckleheads you’re likely to encounter on your shift. The July 4th holiday also brings out vast volumes of low-grade explosives – factory-produced fireworks, as well a smattering of the highly-hazardous homemade variety. Then there are those wonderful incidents of “celebratory” shots being fired into the air and bottle rockets being fired at passing cars.
Here are 10 basic reminders as you head out on patrol on July 4th.
1. Fireworks can be weapons. Don’t disregard that fact if you’re making contact with partiers.
2. Drunk drivers can hit you, too – both while on patrol and when you’re off duty. Watch the road.
3. The 4th can be hot. If you’re working, stay hydrated.
4. Do the math: Lots of people + 4th of July consumption + heat = recipe for disaster. Stay sharp. Remember that drinking and a charged-up crowd can inspire some people to be more confrontational with police than they would normally be. Be ready for that.
5. Crowds can quickly get unruly during mass celebrations. Be smart and wait for backup if you predict you might need it.
6. Repeating #3, the 4th of July can be hot. Wear your vest anyway!
7. Bone up on your holiday-specific first aid. Are you ready for first responder treatment of missing fingers, a variety of burns, a bottle rocket to the eye, alcohol poisoning and dehydration?
8. Don’t forget your own kids. You likely caution others about the dangers of screwing around with fireworks (and other explosives), drunk driving and drinking too much. Make sure your own kids are included in that discussion.
9. Refresh yourself on water rescue protocols and procedures. Lots of people are in the water during the 4th holiday. Be ready if you’re called to a water-related incident.
10. Make sure you’ve got a fire extinguisher in your car. With fireworks being lit, the potential for a fire is definitely there. If you’re prepared to act early, you can help avoid a bigger problem.
The Independence Day holiday always serves as a powerful reminder of why our country is great. Be proud of what you do to protect it. We certainly are. Stay safe out there, always.
