BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. –
First and foremost, "enjoy your summer!" There is a lot to do here in Northern California, so get out there, do it, and have fun with families, friends and significant others.
While planning summer activities, please keep in mind this is the time of year the Air Force and Air Force Reserve Command see an increase in off-duty accidents and fatalities.
Remember to use ACT for each activity:
Assess the risk,
Consider options,
Take appropriate action to reduce unnecessary risk
Additionally, stay well hydrated, use sunscreen and wear hats when appropriate.
But most importantly, don't drink, and drive. Driving means operating anything with an engine. This includes cars, motorcycles, boats, all-terrain vehicles, golf-carts and more. Plan each activity to include a designated driver.
The Beale Airman Against Drunk Driving (BAADD) are also available to help Airmen make it home safely if needed. The BADD hotline is (530) 634-5555.
If BADD is not available, Airmen should call their supervisors, first sergeants or even the wing chief of Safety, who can be contacted thru the Command Post.
Below is a 101 Critical Days of Summer message from Lt. Gen. John A. Bradley, AFRC commander. He does a good job summing it up.
"The "101 Critical Days of Summer" between Memorial Day and Labor Day, are once again upon us. In the past this is a historically hazardous time where we sometimes forgo our usual cautious nature and enjoy the warm weather and sunny days without taking the necessary steps to stay safe."
"Last summer alone the Air Force lost 18 Airmen in accidents during the "101 Critical Days of Summer;" a trend which has remained unacceptably high. Motor vehicle fatalities accounted for most of our losses. Collectively, we lost seven Airmen to automobile mishaps and another four to motorcycle mishaps. Too many of these tragedies involved speeding, alcohol, and a lack of use of seatbelts or a helmet."
"There are still several other factors that make us vulnerable during the "101 Critical Days of Summer." An increase in sports and recreational activities, high-risk acts, outdoor-leisure pursuits, lack of proper risk management/planning and failing to know your physical limits are just a few of those reasons."
"I personally challenge each of you to strive to be an unrivaled wingman to your family, friends and fellow Airmen this summer. Take some extra time to plan your trips and outdoor activities, keep a watchful eye over each other and don't take or allow your friends and family to take any unnecessary risks. Just a few extra moments will significantly help lessen the possibility of this summer being filled with tragedy instead of fond memories."
"I hope your family and you enjoy these summer months by taking full advantage of what your contributions to this great country have made available. But, please enjoy them responsibly."
- Lt. Gen. John A. Bradley, Commander, AFRC