However, for service members and their families stationed here, this year will be a different celebration than what many remember from their childhood. Officials with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler want to provide some information to ensure a safe and happy Fourth of July.

According to Marine Corps Bases Japan Order 11320.1, Fire Protection Regulations and Instructions for Marine Corps Bases Japan:

"...The use of fireworks is prohibited. The term 'fireworks' includes blank cartridges, fire crackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, sparklers, or similar items capable of producing a visual or audible effect by combustion or detonation."

The most important thing Status of Forces Agreement personnel need to be aware of is that some traditions they may have in the United States cannot be done in Japan.

SOFA personnel are subject to disciplinary action for violating Aaron Davis, lead occupational safety and health specialist for Camp Kinser, emphasized that fireworks are prohibited for all SOFA members to purchase or use.

"Everyone can watch and enjoy a fireworks show," said Davis. "Kadena displays a show of fireworks every Independence Day."

This year there will be two fireworks shows. One at Torii Beach Saturday at 8 p.m. after the "All American Beach Party" which starts at noon, and one Sunday at Kadena Air Base's Marek Park at 8:30 p.m. after the July Fourth Celebration which starts at 3 p.m.

Camp fires are another hazardous activity safety officials are concerned with during the upcoming holiday.

"Open camp fires are frowned upon by the Marine Corps Base," said Michael Joseph, assistant fire chief for the Marine Corps Bases Japan Fire Department. "You will need to get a burn permit from the fire prevention section to be able to have an open fire of any kind."

Camp fires are prohibited because they can become out-of-hand and the embers can be blown by the wind into surrounding vegetation and cause a wildfire, said Joseph.

Other holiday activities that are not as hazardous as an open campfire but are covered in the order are barbecuing and outdoor grilling.

"Grills are fine to have at base housing," said Davis. "They are even allowed at base enlisted quarters and base officers' quarters."

Joseph recommends owners keep the grill away from any housing structures and make sure there are no combustible overhangs such as branches, canopies, cabanas or canvas.

According to the order, grilling units "are not to be used in the confines of any building or housing unit and should be at least 10 feet away from the building ..."

Owners should inspect their grills before they begin to cook anything on it, advised Joseph.

"Do not use gasoline when starting a grill," said Joseph. "Be sure to use the approved starter fluid."

"You have to give yourself enough time to barbecue," said Davis. "It takes patience to barbecue, and you need to have some preparation time before you start grilling. You need to allow enough time for the charcoal to get to a good temperature for cooking your food. You don't want to tell everyone that the barbecue is at 8 a.m. and when they start arriving you don't even have the grill started."

Do not spray fluids on a grill because they can cause severe burns, warned Joseph.

Davis also advised owners to use the proper equipment when grilling.  An apron should be worn to protect the body and clothes from any burns, and long forks and tongs to handle food without touching the flame.

"You need to properly dispose of the charcoal when you are finished using the grill," added Joseph. "Do not just throw away charcoal in the trash can because it can catch fire. Also, do not pour water on the charcoal as you can get steam burns from the steam it will produce."

Owners will need to wait 24 hours before disposing of the charcoal from the grill, said Joseph.

In case of an accident, emergency numbers should be easily accessible. If calling from any base phone, dial 911. If calling from off base or a cell phone, dial 098-911-1911.

For more information on fire safety tips, contact the Base Safety Office at 645-3806.