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Team Fairchild holds Motorcycle Safety Expo

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Taylor Bourgeous
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  It's that time of year again when the weather is warm and motorcyclists are back on the roads. Team Fairchild safety officials held a Motorcycle Expo April 7 to remind everyone how to be safe this season.

The expo included booths from the Fire Department, Security Forces and the Alcohol and Drug Prevention Treatment office.

"These motorcycle trainings give riders an excellent opportunity to learn what their limits are, especially if they are new to riding a motorcycle," said Lt. Col. Patrick O'Rourke, 92nd Air Refueling Wing chief of safety. "They also allow the experts to share with new riders all of their experience."

Currently, Fairchild has a riding population of more than 150, and everyone is required to follow the same guidelines and wear the proper equipment when riding on base. Military motorcyclists must follow the same rules off base, as well.

Required personal protection equipment for military motorcyclists on or off base, and all riders on base, includes head protection such as a helmet; eye protection such as goggles, wrap around glasses, or a full-face shield; foot protection including sturdy over-the-ankle footwear that affords protection for the feet and ankles; and protective clothing, which consists of the wearing of a long sleeved shirt or jacket, long trousers and full-fingered gloves or mittens is required. Wearing of a motorcycle jacket and pants constructed of abrasion resistant materials is strongly encouraged. Riders should select PPE that incorporates fluorescent colors and retro-reflective material.

"The number one tip as a rider is to know your limits, as well as your bike's limits," said O'Rourke.

Another tip O'Rourke mentioned is to assume other drivers do not know you are there. Many drivers usually don't know how to drive around motorcycles, so the rider should remain vigilant.

For more information about safe motorcycle driving or upcoming classes, call the Safety Office at (509)247-2141.