Summer safety campaign stresses mishap prevention

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Air Force will kick off its annual 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign starting Memorial Day weekend in an effort to raise awareness and prevent possible summertime mishaps.

The campaign, which ends after Labor Day, emphasizes safety habits to Airmen, especially those who are 26 years old and younger--because they are the ones often getting hurt, said Joseph Bell, 23rd Wing deputy chief of ground safety.

"As the warmer weather approaches, people of all ages tend to engage in more activities such as traveling and being outdoors," said Mr. Bell. "The Air Force experiences a sharp increase in off-duty mishaps during this time since most of the activities are high-risk."

E-mails, briefings and high-risk activity guides are used to provide Airmen information to put them on the right track to prevent injuries, he said.

"Every Airman is essential in completing the mission," he added. "If they miss work because of an injury, then their job is not getting done, and others have to do more work."

The main cause of injuries and fatalities during the summer is motor vehicle operations, and it is the top concern for the Moody safety officials.

"The best way to prevent motor vehicle accidents is to obey traffic laws and wear your seatbelt," said Mr. Bell. "Also, have a game plan when traveling long distances and take rest breaks often.

He also said Airmen need to perform normal vehicle checks such as inspecting tire threads, lights and brakes before traveling and always be mindful of weather issues.

Sports injuries are another potential mishap that can be prevented by taking a few precautionary measures.

"Stretch before you participate in anything physical," said Craig Scott, 23rd Force Support Squadron unit safety representative. "Wear the proper protective gear and find out more information if you're new at the sport. Never go beyond your limits."

While the safety office is constantly focused on the well-being of Moody members, supervisors also have a responsibility to take care of their Airmen. This includes giving pre-departure briefings before their younger Airmen hit the road for summer travels.

"Once they are briefed, the individual has the ultimate responsibility for their actions," Mr. Scott said. "If they are more educated, then they can think twice before engaging in high-risk activities."

Though there are preventative measures for many possible mishaps, Moody officials say the most important tool is the use of operational risk management or "common sense."

"Have a plan of action before participating in any kind of high-risk activity," Mr. Scott said. "Think of what the consequences are to your actions and remember the Wingman concept. This means to think of others as well."

Though the base's goal is to have no fatalities or injuries during the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, the safety officials are aware accidents happen and that's why educating Airmen is so important, said Mr. Bell.

"We understand that summer is the time to go out and have fun," he said. "Just plan safety into your activities and gain knowledge to enhance your survival skills. We don't want Airmen to suffer from something they could have prevented."