Recent fatalities highlight importance of safety

Published June 30, 2011
Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Two recent motorcycle fatalities in Global Strike Command serve as a grim reminder to stay vigilant when it comes to safety over the Independence Day weekend, said Col. Gerald Hounchell, Global Strike Command director of safety.

Colonel Hounchell emphasized the importance of safety and well-being of Airmen and their families in a memo to the command's leaders June 28.

"Our Airmen should know they are our most precious resource and we cannot accomplish our mission without them," Colonel Hounchell said.

"Countless numbers of people have been affected by each of these motorcycle fatalities," Colonel Hounchell said. "Spouses, children, parents, friends, family, co-workers, and fellow Airmen feel the effects of these tragic accidents."

"One life lost in Global Strike Command is one too many," said Brig. Gen. Everett Thomas, Global Strike Command vice commander.

"We lose more Airmen in the summer months than any other time of year," General Thomas said. "I encourage every Airman and family member in our command to use common sense and look out for each other over the holiday weekend."

In May, General Thomas encouraged Airmen at the command's motorcycle safety ride to wear proper protective equipment and to follow all safety regulations on-base and legal requirements off-base.

Independence Day celebrations also present unique risks such as fireworks, barbecue grills and water hazards, officials said.

Airmen should be particularly cautious when operating fireworks, which cause more injuries on the 4th of July than any other holiday, according to officials. In 2010, three fireworks-related deaths and 8,600 injuries were reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Global Strike Command's Pre-Leave and Pass talking points are a great tool to use when discussing off-duty plans and helping to stress the importance of having and being a good Wingman, according to safety officials. An abbreviated version of the checklist is below, and the full list can be found here.

1. Rest prior to departure and during travel.

2. Avoid late night driving.

3. Ensure you have funds to cover travel-related expenses.

4. Know the weather forecast for your intended route of travel.

5. Inspect your vehicle and be mindful of its condition.

6. Speeding, fatigue, alcohol, and failure to use occupant restraints or helmets are the main causes of death and injury in vehicle mishaps. Always plan for a designated driver when required.

7. Sports and recreational activities are a leading cause of off-duty injuries. Minimize risks by proper use of personal protective equipment and by stretching before the activity, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding overexertion, and stretching again after the activity.

8. Activities such as motorcycling have unique risks associated with them. Consider ways to mitigate the associated risks.

9. Drinking and driving don't mix. Remember the 0-0-1-3 responsible drinking culture--zero drinks under 21, zero DUIs, maximum one drink per hour, maximum three drinks in one night. Designated drivers do not drink any alcohol.

10. Emergencies. Contact your chain of command if you are involved in an accident or an emergency situation arises. Do not rush to make up lost time. Keep a current recall roster with you.