Memorial Day kicks off annual safety campaign

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  In 1964 the Air Force first began to highlight summer safety through a program originally known as the 101 Critical Days of Summer, now known only as the Critical Days of Summer. This year that campaign is scheduled to run May 23 through Sept. 2 with the theme, "Risk: Double checks, not second thoughts."

"Risk management has a role in everything we do, both on and off duty," said Galen Williams, 66th Air Base Group Safety director. "It continues to be the job of the safety professionals at Hanscom to provide guidance to all Airmen, military and civilian, about the dangers of the summer season."

Airmen are encouraged to use sound risk management every day, said Williams, adding that while the main focus of the Critical Days of Summer campaign is for off-duty activities, Airmen must use the same risk management techniques in all circumstances - on and off duty.

Among the examples of activities that can be prevented through risk management are distracted driving, drinking and driving and more.

And with motorcycle-riding weather finally here after a long winter, Airmen should know that operating a motorcycle is among the most dangerous activities Airmen participate in. According to the Air Force Safety Center, the Air Force had 36 fatalities due to motorcycle mishaps from 2009 to 2013 during the CDOS campaign.

"With summer nearly upon us, motorcyclists will spend more and more time riding," Williams said. "The Air Force requires training for all motorcyclists, as stated in AFI 91-207, and risk management techniques provide a rider the means to ensure all safety precautions are taken to include proper personal protective equipment."

Members of the community might also be preparing for outdoor sporting activities this summer. Hanscom's safety professionals want everyone to remember that participation in sports has its own risks, which can be mitigated by using risk management techniques.

"Do everything you can to prepare safely for participation in your favorite summer sport," Williams said.

Many Airmen also use the summer months to take leave and explore New England.

"Hanscom leaders are counting on you to maintain a focus on safety during this Memorial Day weekend," he said. "Drive defensively, be cognizant of driver distractions, use seat belts and don't drink and drive."

He included that the expectation is for every member of the Hanscom community to safely return after the long weekend.

Safety starts at the top and is something that must be done all the way down the chain, Williams said.

"Take an active role in keeping your fellow Airmen safe," he said. "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 on the Critical Days of Summer safety campaign, contact the Safety Office at 781-225-5584.