Base residents are responsible for maintaining their homes in good order Published Jan. 28, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Janelle Patiño 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Fairchild's Family Advocacy Team reminds base housing residents that homes deemed unsanitary or having physical hazards could result in unit leadership involvement, especially in regards to the health welfare of residences with children. "Military families should do their best to ensure their homes are free from physical hazards," said Ruth Sunde, 92nd Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager. "Keeping a clean, safe environment for ourselves and our children is paramount and is in line with the core values of integrity and excellence in all that we do." As per AFI 1-1, 3.6 Housing: In government-owned or privatized housing on a military installation, Airmen will ensure their homes are maintained in a clean and orderly fashion. Regardless of the type of housing, all Air Force members are responsible for the proper care and use of their home, and for the conduct of their dependents, guests and pets. "It would be illogical to expect to keep a home 'white glove inspection clean,'" Sunde said. "However, there are certain issues that move a house from unkempt to being a safety hazard. For instance, prescription or over-the-counter medication and sharp kitchen implements should be stored in cabinets out of the reach of children." The housing on base is privatized and run by the Balfour Beatty Communities. Housing residents should know the procedure on how to call in for maintenance so provided appliances, like dishwashers, are in working order at all times. "Balfour Beatty only does home inspections when units are initially becoming vacated and upon taking ownership," said Sunde. "However, commanders and first sergeants have the authority to perform morale and welfare checks on any residence if they fear a child is being neglected." According to Dawn Barker, 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron military housing liaison, while in a unit for maintenance, BBC is responsible for reporting to the base liaison via their leadership when a home is in disarray. "At that point, the base liaison will notify the first sergeant and supervision of the member," said Barker. "The member's leadership will meet with BBC and the base liaison at their home to go over proper care and procedures." Several agencies are available for military personnel living on base such as Public Health, the Fire Department, Family Advocacy, New Parent Support Program Nurse and the Safety Office. "Every active-duty member has access to the services offered on a base," she said. "The list above represents the same agencies that offer their services at 'right start.'" For more information, contact Family Advocacy at (509) 247-2687, Balfour Beatty Communities at (509) 247-9044 or the Civil Engineering Housing office at (509) 247-9005.