LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
As the summer months rapidly approach, U.S. Service members may anticipate leaving work to enjoy the warm weather. In order to have a successful and injury-free summer, Service members must be aware that with the new season comes a heightened need for safety for not only themselves, but their wingmen as well.
May 25 through Sept. 4 has been designated the Critical Days of Summer by the U.S. Air Force and Army. The campaign was developed to ensure Service members stay safe and recognize the risks of the summer months while on and off-duty.
"The campaign is a way to raise awareness and promote risk-management," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Buford, 633rd Air Base Wing noncommissioned officer-in-charge of ground safety. "The campaign helps Service members become aware of the limitations of their surroundings and indicators of what's going on."
During summer months, Service members continue to perform the mission while maintaining their physical fitness. According to Buford, it is imperative that throughout these months, personnel are educated on the different heat indexes as well as the flag conditions, so they know the work-rest cycle.
"The flag conditions, heat index and wetbulb globe temperatures are important to know so Service members don't overexert themselves while working or spending time outside," Buford explained. "The work-rest cycle will tell an individual how long they can be exposed before they need to rest, which will minimize the risk of overexertion."
During the critical days of summer, heat related injuries often rise due to inadequate preparation, said Buford.
Service members should remember to hydrate regularly and take into account that weather can cause increased possibilities for other heat-induced illnesses.
"Heat-related injuries can range anywhere from dehydration to more severe injuries like heat strokes," said Buford. "Even sunburns are injuries that individuals should be cautious of because they can take you out of commission."
In order for the mission to be successful throughout the critical days, Service members must look at what is urgent versus what is important.
According to Buford, many individuals think "mission first," but if they are not ensuring their safety, the mission cannot be completed.
"People are our number one resource and asset," explained Buford. "Securing [people's safety] should be the primary thing to take into account because without the individuals there to accomplish the mission, we cannot move forward."
For more information regarding the Critical Days of Summer Campaign, contact the 633rd Air Base Wing Safety Office at
633ABW/SEGroundSafety@us.af.mil