Quest for Zero: Motorcycle accidents are preventable

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ceaira Tinsley
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
As the summer season rapidly approaches and the sweltering heat rises in South Georgia, more Airmen are opting to trade in their four wheel transportation for two. Unfortunately, Air Combat Command has already suffered six motorcycle fatalities this fiscal year - and even one fatality is one too many.

The Air Force's recently implemented Quest for Zero campaign challenges Airmen to embrace the motto: My job, my life, my choice. The Air Force Safety Center reported most fatalities are preventable, so it is important Airmen understand how risk management factors into everything they do, both on and off duty. According to Bill Parsons, Air Force Chief of Ground Safety, we need every Airman to commit to making [the number of fatalities] zero this year, and we do that by using the same risk management skills we apply on the job to ensure everyone returns safely at summer's end and ready to accomplish the mission.

Join the Air Force's Quest for Zero and utilize motorcycle safety by following these tips:

· Complete required Air Force motorcycle training course.

· Give your bike an inspection before riding.

· Ensure you have on the proper protective equipment.

· Never drive after drinking.

· Maintain a safe distance between you and the cars around you (i.e. if you can't see the driver's rearview mirror, the driver can't see you).

· Stop and take breaks when traveling a long distance.

· Travel at a safe speed and account for the different hazards associated with each season (i.e. summer heat can cause highway to crack sealer to turn slippery).