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Safety is a must during Critical Days of Summer

  • Published
  • Air Mobility Command Safety Office
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  This year's Air Force Critical Days of Summer campaign theme is "Risk: Double Checks; Not Second Thoughts."

This weekend starts the campaign, and it focuses on traffic safety as the leading cause of death to Airmen.

During the past five summer campaigns, ten Air Mobility Command Airmen lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents. Nine of those involved excessive speed, and six involved alcohol. The factors remain the same year in and year out -- excessive speed, drinking and driving, distractions, and poor risk management.

Last summer, AMC's two fatalities were the result of motorcycle mishaps.

"Whether you're a life-long rider or just starting out, recognition of risks is the key to a safe, enjoyable experience," said Joe Hughes, Air Mobility Command Ground Safety chief.

Take advantage of specialized training courses offered on or near your base, wear approved protective gear at all times, and make smart, risk-based decisions.

In addition to the motorcycle fatalities, there were 129 non-fatal accidents in AMC last summer, most occurred off-duty and involved water sports, backyard cookouts and other recreational events.

While commanders and supervisors play a key role, family, friends, and co-workers may be the final barrier between a good time and life-impacting disaster.

"Family, friends and co-workers are key to reducing accidents when they recognize things are getting out of hand, and they have the courage to intervene," said Wayne Bendall, AMC Safety Occupational Safety and Health manager.

This year's campaign will provide safety information using a series of modules that highlight off-duty safety concerns during each week of the campaign. Contact your local safety office for more details.

"We must be diligent when it comes to on-duty safety as well," said Hughes.

Two airmen died in separate on-duty cargo handling operations last year, and another airman suffered a severed fingertip while loading a pallet.

"Bottom line, take a thorough look at all of your processes to ensure every risk has been identified and mitigated," said Hughes.