LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Each year as many families barbecue, hike, swim and travel, they potentially put themselves in harms way with the summer heat, alcohol, insects and driving. The goal of safety officials during the 101 Critical Days of Summer is to educate Airmen and their families on how to prevent these mishaps.
Although there is a great focus on safety during the summer months, officials urge Airmen to stay vigilant throughout the year.
Mr. Frank Altamura, chief, Air Combat Command ground safety programs, said since the start of fiscal year '07, there have been 14 class A mishaps with four more months remaining in the year. The total number of class A mishaps during FY 06 was 14. Class A mishaps are categorized as resulting in permanent total disability, fatality or property damage of over $1 million.
Of those 14 class A mishaps this year, there were four motorcycle deaths, six automobile accidents, three sports and recreation mishaps and one miscellaneous incident.
Mr. Altamura said the focus this year will continue to be motorcycle and automobile safety, beach and boat safety and alcohol awareness.
During the extended weekends in this time period, many people pack up the car and take to the road. It's important to check the engine oil and coolant prior to embarking. An engine can easily overheat due to improper care when the summer heat beats down. Equally as important is to wear a seatbelt at all times and ensure children are properly strapped into car seats.
In order to reduce the risk of motorcycle injury, a rider should wear the proper safety equipment, which includes a helmet, long-sleeved, bright clothing and protective eye wear. Additionally, he or she should complete the mandatory motorcycle safety course on base and obey speed limits both on and off base.
Many people take to the beach during this time to enjoy the sun and sand. Being outside in the summer sun with very little shade increases the risk of dehydration. Signs of dehydration include nausea, headache, muscle cramps, sweating or chills. The best prevention is to seek shade, wear a hat, and drink plenty of clear fluids. If a form of heat stroke or dehydration does occur, it's important to increase water consumption, rest and eat three salted meals a day.
Boaters should take a refresher course in boat safety before going underway. Additionally, first aid kits, flares for distress signals and life jackets for every passenger should be stored on the boat.
For many, summer is the season of barbecues and many times alcoholic drinks are present. To lessen the chance that a guest will drink and drive, hosts should provide non-alcoholic drinks; take keys prior to the end of the party, serve food and have activities that do not focus on drinking alcohol.
During the 101 Critical Days of Summer, stay prepared, take extra time and use caution to help loved ones avoid the dangers that exist.