Dover kicks off Fall Safety Campaign

  • Published
  • 436th AW Safety Office
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The Air Force Safety Center is leading the first-ever joint-service Fall Safety Campaign which kicked off Sept. 2 and will run through the end of November. It is intended to bridge from where the "101 Critical Days of Summer" Campaign leaves off and the Winter Safety Campaign begins. The primary focus of this campaign is traffic safety.

Vehicle-related mishaps are the leading cause of fatalities to our warriors from all branches of the service. Historically, we have focused much of our effort on the "101 Critical Days of Summer.

Unfortunately, one portion of the year that we have not placed enough attention on is the period of September - November. Air Force statistics have shown a significant increase in vehicle-related fatalities during the fall. The Air Force has lost 41 people during the last three years in this time frame, which is a 29 percent higher rate than during the 15-week period of the 101 Critical Days of Summer. Airmen under 26 are at the highest risk of being fatally injured in a private vehicle or motorcycle mishap.

September - November 2007, Dover sustained 18 reportable mishaps. There were eight on-duty mishaps, five sports and recreation mishaps, two mishaps involving property damage and three private vehicle mishaps.

Unfortunately, one of the private vehicle mishaps resulted in one of our airmen being fatally injured when the vehicle he was operating left the roadway and rolled several times. There were zero reportable private vehicle mishaps involving Dover members during the entire 101 Critical Days of Summer safety campaign this year.

The months of September - November can have pleasant weather conditions, which leads to more outdoor activities and an increase in family trips that may involve driving long distances. Ensure you and all family members are properly buckled up. Seat belts are your best defense to minimizing injuries and preventing fatalities. If driving a long distance, be properly rested before traveling. Fatigue and driving are a deadly combination. Prepare your vehicles for winter and always ensure you have good tires on your vehicle. Proper tire tread is critical to prevent hydroplaning and sliding on slick surfaces.

We need to place the same support and emphasis on our Fall Safety Campaign to ensure the safety of all our Dover Team members. Many days remain where the weather will be warm. Enjoy outdoor activities and traveling with friends and family, but remember to properly plan your activities using individual risk management.