Safety reminder for Hanscom motorcyclists

  • Published
  • By Rhonda Siciliano
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AFB, Mass. --  With only a few weeks left to go in the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, the 66th Security Forces Squadron and 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office want to remind motorcyclists and their passengers of a key safety requirement when riding on base.

"Lately we've noticed some members of the Hanscom community operating a motorcycle without the proper safety gear," said Master Sgt. Shelly Barton, 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office, safety superintendent. "Not only is this practice unsafe but it is also a violation of Air Force policy."

Air Force Instruction 91-207, and AFI 31-204, 66 ABW Supplement requires that motorcycle operators and their passengers wear the proper protective clothing; this requirement applies to both military and civilians. "For military personnel this requirement applies even when riding off base," Sergeant Barton said.

"Anyone attempting to enter the base without the proper gear will be denied access," said Tech. Sgt. Shon Teicheira, 66th Security Forces Squadron, non commissioned officer in charge, police services. "Anyone observed operating a motorcycle on base without the proper protective clothing can be cited and will not be allowed to drive their bike until the proper gear is obtained.

Motorcycle operators and passengers must wear the following protective clothing while riding on base:

- Impact resistant goggles.

- A helmet approved by the Department of Transportation, American National Standards Institute, or Snell Memorial.

- A brightly colored or contrasting vest or jacket as an outer upper garment during the day. The vest or jacket must be reflective during night operation.

- A long-sleeved shirt, jacket or coat.

- Full-fingered motorcycle gloves or mittens.

- Long trousers or pants.

- Sturdy footwear: leather boots or over-the-ankle shoes.

For questions or more information contact Hanscom Police Services at (781) 377-2635 or the 66th Air Base Wing Safety Office at (781) 377-5135.