Top 10 tips for a safe summer Published July 13, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Luke W. Nowakowski 460th Space Wing Public Affairs BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 460th Space Wing Safety Office released a list of safety tips to abide by when conducting summer activities this season on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. "Abiding by the safety tips of summer would prevent unnecessary mishaps, which sometimes leads to Air Force fatalities," said Tech. Sgt. Carlos Rogers, NCO in charge of ground safety. "We cannot afford to continue losing AF members to something as simple as managing off-duty risks." The list of safety tips is a quick reminder of how to stay safe and what to be aware of when enjoying outdoor activities during the summer months. "Safety tip No. 1 and No. 4 are the most tips that need to be really stressed," Rogers said. "This year alone, our off-duty fatalities are largely split between vehicles and water activities. Water activities account for 1/3 of the fatalities so far this year. Special emphasis needs to be placed on any and all activities associated with water." Below are safety tips for this summer season. 1) Be a safe swimmer. Never swim alone, and make sure kids are supervised when near water. 2) If fireworks are part of the celebration, be sure to store and use them safely. 3) Use alcohol responsibly. Alcohol and fireworks can be a hazardous and dangerous combination. Also, have a designated driver to bring you home if you've been drinking. 4) Drive safely and always buckle up. 5) Cover food and beverages outdoors to discourage bees and wasps from attending the party. 6) Apply sunscreen both before and during an outdoor party. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause premature aging and skin cancer, as well as a painful burn the next day. 7) When going hiking or camping in an area where ticks are abundant, wear long-sleeved, light-colored shirts and long pants tucked into socks or boots to protect you from tick-borne diseases. 8) Spend adequate time indoors or in the shade and drink plenty of fluids to avoid heat illness. 9) Keep children away from campfires and grills. Gas leaks, blocked tubes, and overfilled propane tanks can be a cause of grill fires and explosions. 10) Be a good Wingman and take care of each other. Following these 10 tips will bring a safe and responsible summer one step closer. With so many things to do in Colorado during the summer months, why put anything at risk?