Effective risk management key to staying safe

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Base safety officials here remind all members of the community to keep risk management at the forefront of all planned activities.

While arranging summer activities, Airmen are encouraged to identify, assess and mitigate all risks, including trip planning to ensure enough rest and preparation and using appropriate personal protective gear when appropriate.

"The summer season is an important time to incorporate risk management in all on- and off-duty activities," said Galen Williams, 66 ABG Safety director. "It is our responsibility as safety professionals to deliver that message to all Airmen -- military and civilian -- about the dangers associated with outdoor activities this time of year."

Among the best examples of risk management are not driving while distracted and driving after drinking alcohol.

"Most mishaps are preventable," Williams said. "Mishap prevention requires doing the right thing."

Base personnel should also be aware that operating a motorcycle is among the most dangerous activities they can participate in throughout the year. According to Williams, the Air Force had 12 fatalities due to motorcycle mishaps last year and has had eight fatalities so far this fiscal year.

"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 the right personal protective equipment," Williams said.

In addition, while personnel prepare for outdoor sporting activities this summer, officials want everyone to remember that participation in sports has its own risks.

"Do everything you can to prepare safely for participation in your favorite summer sport," Williams said. "Safety starts at the top of an organization and is something every member of Team Hanscom must practice."

That includes stepping in when Airmen see something that does not look right.

"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 Hanscom's summer safety campaign, including motorcycle safety for those new to Hanscom, contact the Safety Office at 781-225-5584 or visit the Safety SharePoint site at https://cs3.eis.af.mil/sites/24169/default.aspx.