Doug Parrish, director, Office of Safety and Occupational Health

Happy 4th of July! I hope that you, your family, and friends have a great holiday weekend.

How should we prepare for the holiday, other summer activities, and on- and off-duty hazards?

With temperatures on the rise and pandemic-related restrictions lifting across the United States, many Forest Service employees and their families will be enjoying recreational activities within their local areas and planning vacations just a road trip away. Summer, however, is the Forest Service’s deadliest time of year for on- and off-duty serious accidents and injuries, so playing it safe is critical to having a good time.

Please don’t forget your personal and family safety this summer, as you swim, boat, hike, bike and otherwise recreate. Please wear your life preservers, bike helmets and other needed personal protective equipment. Practice good heat stress prevention procedures and wear your sunscreen and bug repellant. Watch out for ticks, mosquitos, poison ivy and wild animals as you’re out and about. Be careful of water hazards such as riptides and low head dams. Practice good personal security. Don’t leave your valuables out where they can be stolen, including putting things in your trunk rather than leaving them visible in your car.

Some other recommendations:

• Obey local rules for campfires, open flames and fireworks. Use fireworks responsibly.
• Have a plan. Whether you’re swimming, hiking in the wilderness or playing on the beach, be aware of the hazards and communicate with the rest of your group.
• Read and obey all posted signs and warnings. For example, never leave a child unattended in the pool or in the ocean. Never swim alone or in unsupervised places. 
• Store pool, garden, and household chemicals safely. Keep children away from hazardous chemicals.
• While boating, follow the nautical rules of the road, wear life vests, avoid alcohol and have a plan of where you’re going.
• Please do not drink and drive. Remember to drink responsibly.

Hope you have a great summer!