Critical Days of Summer: '09 Safety campaign kicks off at Dover

  • Published
  • 436th AW Safety Office
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Team Dover celebrates a family day today and begins a four-day weekend to celebrate Memorial Day.

The extended weekend also marks the beginning of this year's 'Critical Days of Summer' safety campaign. Gen. Arthur Lichte, Air Mobility Command commander, has designated this year's campaign as "Back to Basics at Home and Work."

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Air Force has an increased number of off-duty injuries and fatalities. For that reason, the 436th Airlift Wing safety office utilizes the time period to broaden awareness and continue to stress safety.

Since a large number of accidents historically occur Memorial Day weekend, the 436th AW safety office reminds Airmen to keep safety in mind while traveling or participating in any activity this weekend.

The roadways will be crowded so Airmen must drive defensively and travel at safe speeds within the established speed limits. Remember that fatigue and driving is a lethal combination. Be properly rested before beginning your trip.

The safety office reminds Airmen to buckle their seat belts, use proper child restraints and wear the proper personal protective equipment while operating motorcycles, bicycles or other recreational vehicles.

As always, the safety office stresses that Airmen do not make a poor choice by driving after consuming alcohol. There are numerous alternatives.

Historically, many Airmen will try to squeeze too many activities into the summer. This may place more people in risky situations, which have resulted in fatalities in years gone by. Whether driving, participating in sports, or catching the last rays of summer sun, thought processes must include risk management and thinking about what is being done and the consequences.

Each week of the 2009 'Critical Days of Summer' campaign has a specific topic, with the first week focused on sport bike safety. Historically, most off-duty fatalities involve motorcycles or sport bikes, in accidents that can be prevented. Statistically speaking, male senior airmen or staff sergeants are the most likely to be involved in a fatal motorcycle accident, but everyone needs to be safe when riding a motorcycle.

As the safety and well being of each Team Dover member is vitally important so please keep safety in the forefront so another valuable Team Dover member is not lost in a senseless mishap.