Winter weather adds to driving distractions Published Jan. 14, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Samantha Krolikowski 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Distracted driving can occur at any time during the year, but with ice and snow on the roads during the winter, personnel should be even more cautious, warns base safety officials. Distractions regularly occurring include eating, drinking, talking or texting on the phone, listening to music too loud, personal grooming and distracting passengers. During the winter months, personnel should also keep an eye out for winter environmental conditions such as limited visibility due to fog, ice, snow and vehicles with snow removal equipment and wheel spray from those driving ahead said Marc Rupert, the 92nd Air Refueling Wing ground safety manager. "In the past week, the safety office has been notified of several private motor vehicle mishaps where the operator lost control of their vehicle due to ice on the road surface," said Mr. Bryan Bailey, the 92nd Air Refueling Wing ground safety superintendent. "Fortunately, there have been no serious injuries reported. These near misses can be used as an indicator of probable future mishaps that may lead to serious injury." Drivers should be aware that roads may not be ideal during this time of year and ensure they make the necessary adjustments such as speed, following distance and possible variation in commuting time each day. "I cannot stress enough the importance of using good risk management and sound judgment based on known facts," said Rupert. For more information on winter safety call (509)-247-2143.