Practice bicycle safety; don't let your last breath be on the road

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kia Atkins, 35th Fighter Wing public affairs photographer, simulates being hit by a vehicle while riding a bike at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 13, 2012. When riding a bicycle, being constantly aware of your surroundings is a part of taking road safety precautions. (U.S. Air Force illustration by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)

Celebrate the 4th – Live to See the 5th

A firework splits an apple in half, illustrating the destructive force of fireworks if used improperly. The Fourth of July is always a fun time to gather with family and friends to acknowledge the nation’s birthday. Fireworks are a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday, but they must be used carefully. Many types of fireworks can be found throughout Japan year-round, but they are prohibited on Misawa Air Base. The National Council on Fireworks Safety urges consumers to be smart when it comes to fireworks. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Nathan Lipscomb/Released)

Sober is safer: thinking then drinking

This graphic portrays an example of steps you can take to stay safe when you choose to go for a night of drinking for the Critical Days of Summer Campaign at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 14, 2012. This week’s topic is “Sober is Safer: Thinking then Drinking.” Consider your safety, as well as the safety of others, and develop a plan before you drink, rather than after, and stick to it. Whether it’s having a designated driver or choosing to stay sober while you participate in outdoor activities, you will have fun knowing you’ve taken steps to prevent injury or death. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Master Sgt. Matthew Osborn/Released)

Wingmen: It's personal -- take care of each other

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Zachary Kee, 35th Fighter Wing public affairs apprentice, portrays an Airman in need of a wingman for the Critical Days of Summer Campaign at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 7, 2012. This week’s concept is “Wingmen: It’s personal – take care of each other.” Airmen adhere to, and rely on, three core values: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. The core values, paired with the Airman’s Creed, compel Airmen to take care of their fellow wingmen. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Airman 1st Class Kia Atkins/Released)

Water is a life-saving tool

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Dehydration is one of the causes of heat-related injuries. Dehydration occurs when your body does not have as much fluids as it should. It can be caused by losing too much fluid, not drinking enough water or both. The body’s normal cooling mechanism is sweating, but if your body doesn’t have enough fluid to produce sweat, the body will overheat. Being aware of your activity before hand and hydrating for it will help eliminate dehydration. Whether it’s working outside on the flight line all day or doing PT with your unit remember to hydrate yourself the day before. (U.S. Air Force Photo Illustration/ Staff Sgt. April Quintanilla)

Bicycle Safety

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Base personnel are required to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle on base even if Japanese law doesn't require it. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a bicycle crash. In 2009, 630 bicyclists were killed and an additional 51,000 were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Bicyclist's deaths accounted for 2 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities, and made up 2 percent of all the people injured in traffic crashes. When selecting a helmet, it should fit snugly and sit flat atop the head. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that bicyclists should wear a helmet that complies with the American National Standards Institute or the Snell Memorial Foundation. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Marie Brown)