Don't be a summer casualty! - Accent on Safety - safety rules

Combat Edge, July, 2003

Every summer we shower the field with messages, e-mails, and letters warning our command members of the increased dangers that accompany the summer season. For more than 20 years we've even christened the days from Memorial Day through Labor Day as the "101 Critical Days of Summer." These days are critical because many people die while enjoying summertime fun. Last summer, 30 Air Force members died while off duty. That's 30 airmen who are no longer available to defend their country and will never again enjoy time with their families, friends, and coworkers. These losses are unacceptable and preventable.

While we encourage care and safe practices, summer outdoor activities and injuries, both major and minor, still happen. The trick to being safe is to use Operational Risk Management (ORM) for ourselves, our family, and our fellow airmen to help reduce the odds of serious injury or death. We must also adjust our attitudes and behaviors and have the courage to identify and stop risky behavior. In this regard, I want all commanders to remind their airmen on the hazards of the four biggest summertime killers.

Drinking and driving. Nearly half of all highway fatalities are alcohol related. Stress the importance of designating a driver before attending a social function and offer a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages at unit social functions. Let your people know it's O.K. to take the keys from impaired airmen, friends, or family members.

Speeding. Speed is a factor in one-third of all highway fatalities (second only to alcohol as a factor in highway crashes). In 2001, speeding was a contributing factor in 30 percent of all fatal crashes and 12,850 lives were lost in speeding-related crashes.

Not wearing seat belts. Seat belts reduce the risk of a fatal or serious injury by 40-55 percent. Air bags are not a substitute. The combination of air bags and seat belts significantly improve your chances of surviving a serious accident. Make sure everyone, on and off base, and all passengers in the vehicle are buckled up.

Not using child restraints. Make sure all children are buckled up in a federally approved child safety seat according to weight, height, and age. Always place children in the back seat. Never place a rear facing child restraint in front of a passenger side air bag.

We must all step out and demonstrate our sincere concern for everyone's safety and security during this critical time. Our goal is to have 100 percent of our people back at work at the end of these 101 critical days. Please help us make this goal a reality.