LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Editor's Note: This feature is a part of a series highlighting Critical Days of Summer safety tips.
From 2009 to 2013, 43 percent of U.S. Air Force member private motor vehicle fatalities during the summer months involved alcohol, according to 633rd Air Base Wing Safety.
Both the U.S. Army and Air Force have zero-tolerance policies against operating motor vehicles while intoxicated. According to the Department of Defense Directive 1010.7, Drunk and Drugged Driving by DOD Personnel, intoxicated driving is incompatible with standards of performance, military discipline, reliability and readiness of military units and supporting activities. The DOD participates in the national effort to prevent driving under the influence and fatalities caused by such actions.
To prevent an influx of drinking and driving-related instances during the Critical Days of Summer, consider the following tips:
- Always have a plan for transportation to and from the destination where drinking will occur. Once "plan A" is set, formulate a "plan B" in case the original strategy falls through. Include a designated non-drinking driver, a phone number for a taxi and military members' supervisor's phone numbers in the plan. The designated driver should keep that information.
- Carry a form of picture identification and the written addresses of the event and final destinations.
- If in the local area, call the Soldiers and Airmen Against Drinking and Driving program at (757) 764-2233for a safe ride home.
- Use the Battle Buddy and Wingman concepts to hold fellow Airmen and Soldiers accountable for their actions.
- Do not operate any type of motor vehicle while intoxicated.
- If all plans fall through, call a supervisor or a member of the chain of command for assistance.
Help make the Critical Days of Summer a success by having fun while ensuring safety. For more information about safety, contact the 633rd ABW Safety Office at 633ABW/SEGroundSafety@us.af.mil.