Misawa gears up for summer with safety in mind

  • Published
  • 35th Fighter Wing Safety Office
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  From the cold of winter that kept servicemembers cooped up in their homes, to the warmth of summer that urges people to come outside, safety should always be foremost.

The 2011 Critical Days of Summer campaign begins May 27th and ends September 6th. The campaign was previously known as the "101 Critical Days of Summer" but, in 2009, the Air Force removed the "101" because there are more than 101 days in the season. The annual CDS campaign seeks to reduce the number of accidents during this time of year when mishap rates traditionally increase.

Since 2002, the Air Force has experienced 218 fatalities during the summer. The vast majority of these fatalities happened off-duty and involved activities with alcohol and vehicles.

The motto of The Pacific Air Force's 2011 CDS campaign is, "I can save my own Life," which aims to create an encouraging environment leading to responsible and safe behavior for Airmen and their families during this peak season. Mishap investigations and statistical analysis show that most mishaps could have been prevented had the individuals used operational risk management, personal risk management or the wingman concept to minimize the risk or eliminate it altogether.

Time off to enjoy recreational activities is important for a servicemember's morale and mental well-being. While enjoying some well-deserved down time, it is essential to keep in mind the importance of safety and risk management. You use risk management effectively on the job every day by assessing the risks, considering the options and taking appropriate action. Applying these same risk management principles to your off-duty time will go a long way towards keeping summer safe.

The 35th Fighter Wing Safety Office at Misawa Air Base, Japan, is taking an active approach to safety awareness this summer.

"We will promote safety in such areas as motorcycle riding, water sports, bicycle riding, grilling and traveling," said Master Sgt. Xaviera McFadden, 35th FW Ground Safety Office chief. "Look for information and events to be posted throughout the summer. Let's make it through this summer season without a tragic loss of a single member of our Misawa family. By looking out for yourself, your family members and your wingmen, and using sound risk management, you will ensure we achieve our goal -- zero mishaps."