Summertime Safety

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jonathan Hehnly
  • 911th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Pittsburgh IAP ARS --  The last Monday of May marks the unofficial beginning of summer and the start of an Air Force risk management campaign.

Each year the Air Force highlights the period of time from Memorial Day through Labor Day as the Critical Days of Summer. During this time, the Air Force places its focus on the off-duty safety of military members and their families.

As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, many change their routines to enjoy the sunny outdoor environment.

The past years have shown that with the increase of outdoor activities between May 26 and September 1 comes an increase in off-duty mishaps and accidents.

In 2013, the 911th AW saw several members involved in serious all-terrain vehicle accidents over the spring and summer months.

Maj. Diane Patton, the 911th AW Chief of Safety, urges AW members to use the critical days as an opportunity to talk to friends, family and wingmen about being safe and acknowledging the different summertime hazards.

Plans to travel or participate in warm weather activities tend to come with an increased risk of hazards and related injuries. Dangers associated with grilling, swimming, boating and heat illness are just a few of the hazards one might face.

To avoid potential injuries or accidents, members are reminded to continue the use of risk-management techniques when planning their summertime activities or travel.

For additional information on the critical days of summer follow the guidance of base safety personnel.