Open house safety remains priority of joint base Published April 11, 2014 JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The May 2012 air show brought more than 200,000 visitors to the joint base. The joint base will open its gates again this year and host an open house and air show May 10-11, 2014. Safety is at the forefront of planning for this year's event and the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Safety Office is working to keep both JB MDL personnel and community members safe. "People should remember to apply sunscreen, at least SPF 15, and wear comfortable shoes," said Bill Goldsberry, JB MDL Safety Office occupational safety and health specialist. "Bringing sunscreen is strongly advised, as well." Visitors are also urged to bring hats to shield their heads, necks and faces from sunburn and also bring sunglasses to protect their eyes from harmful UV rays. "Once you've parked on the base, remember which area you're in," Goldsberry said. "Street names and landmarks will help if you need to ask directions from those working." Security personnel will be stationed throughout the base at designated parking areas to guide visitors into spaces and toward the festivities. Open house attendees are advised to drink plenty of water while out on the airfield and take frequent breaks in shaded tents to avoid heat-related injuries. "Families and groups should keep contact with each other during the show," Goldsberry said. "Cell phones are the easiest way for attendees to maintain contact with their group, but parents or guardians should keep children with them." Aircraft and equipment can be dangerous so guests are reminded not to climb on any displays without a crewmember's permission. Pets of all types are prohibited on the airfield and owners will be told to return them home. "We also want to be sure no one brings their pets to the air show," Goldsberry added. "Animals will not be allowed on the airfield and should not be left in cars during the event. Heat injuries can occur in animals that are left in vehicles." "Overall we want to see everyone being safe and enjoying their time on the base," Goldsberry said. "With all the work base members are putting into pulling this show together, it'll be great to see everyone coming on experiencing a piece of the military world." -30-