Summer safety campaign kicks off Published May 20, 2013 By Mark Wyatt 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- In a memo distributed to commanders and directors command wide, Air Force Materiel Command director of safety issued a reminder to "...enlist the support of every commander, every supervisor, every work group leader, and every individual to engage and remain engaged," throughout the summer months as the Critical Days of Summer campaign kicks off May 24. Col. Edward S. Cones, AFMC director of safety, said the big push is to reach everyone to ensure the "few that will truly need the message...think about how they approach risk" this summer. Risk such as distracted driving, drinking and operating a motor vehicle, outdoor safety and more. The Critical Days of Summer theme this year is, "Safe 'n Sound - All Year Round" and runs through Sept. 3. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center commander, Lt. Gen. C.D. Moore II issued a challenge to personnel. "I challenge all of you to be an excellent Wingman and look out for one another -- on duty and off," said Moore. "We all play a key role in our own safety and the safety of our AFLCMC teammates." The 66th Air Base Group Safety Office suggests that as members of the Hanscom community take advantage of the four-day holiday weekend by spending time traveling or participating in outdoor recreation, everyone must ensure appropriate risk management steps are in place. This includes the proper wear of motorcycle personal protective equipment, safe driving, water and hiking safety and responsible use of alcohol. "Hanscom leaders are counting on you to maintain your focus on safety during this Memorial Day weekend," said Galen Williams, 66th Air BaseĀ Group chief of safety. "Drive defensively, be cognizant of driver distractions, use seat belts and don't drink and drive." The expectation is that every member of the Hanscom community returns to work after the long weekend. AFMC director of safety suggested that in order to prevent one loss of life in a vehicle accident, thousands of people must wear their seatbelts. "For the safety community, the objective this summer is no loss of life, no injuries," said Cones. "But simply to save just one more individual, we have to reach out to thousands." Williams added it starts at the top and is something that must be done all the way down the chain. "Take an active role in keeping your fellow Airmen safe," said Williams. "Be a great wingman, an engaged supervisor and the one who sets the example for safety both on and off duty." For more information on the Critical Days of Summer safety campaign, contact the Safety Office at 781-225-5584.