HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – 66th Air Base Group Safety officials encourage all members of the community here to practice risk management when participating in activities on- or off-duty this summer.
Effective risk management allows personnel to identify hazards before a potential injury occurs to themselves or a member of their family.
"The summer season is a critical time to incorporate risk management while participating in any activity," said Galen Williams, 66 ABG Safety director. "It is our responsibility as safety professionals to deliver this message to all Airmen -- military and civilian -- about the dangers associated with this time of year."
Williams said common summer concerns include dehydration, sunburns and heat exhaustion.
While arranging activities, safety officials encourage personnel to identify, assess and mitigate all risks. Personnel should plan their trips to ensure enough rest and preparation before embarking, and use appropriate personal protective gear when needed.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while on base, leadership requires personnel to wear face coverings, including work centers, when unable to maintain six feet of physical distance.
Tech. Sgt. Alexander Stavrinos, 66 ABG occupational safety specialist, suggests visiting the Mass.gov website for COVID-19 safety-related information for off-base activities such as visiting public swimming areas, boating, hunting and more. Additional COVID-19 safety information can be found at www.cdc.gov and www.who.int.
“If you want to go out and enjoy the weather, just make sure you’re taking every necessary safety precaution,” said Stavrinos.
With many returning to work during Phase 2A, officials also ask individuals to limit distractions while operating a motor vehicle. This includes following Massachusetts’ hands-free law that went into effect earlier this year..
“After months of reduced foot and vehicle traffic, personnel should remain alert for bicyclists and pedestrians who may be entering traffic,” said Stavrinos. “They should also look out for motorcyclists.”
According to Stavrinos, all military motorcycle riders, regardless of experience, must attend an approved rider course. He said the best option is to go through the registry of motor vehicles of their home state for licensing for first-time riders.
Additional summer safety information is available at the Hanscom Safety SharePoint site.
Officials stress that best safety practices start at the top of an organization and continue down the chain.
"Take an active role in keeping your fellow Airmen safe," said Stavrinos. "Be a great wingman, an engaged supervisor and the one who sets the example for safety, both on- and off-duty, for all."
For more information about summer safety, contact the Safety Office at 781-225-5584 or 66.abg.se.cmb@us.af.mil.