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JBSA News
NEWS | May 24, 2016

Summer is coming: Risk assessment key to safety

Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Public Affairs

With warmer months quickly approaching, Joint Base San Antonio members are reminded to keep risk management as part of their recreational activities.

Over the past three years, 65 Airmen have lost their lives during the 101 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This year’s Summer Safety Campaign, formerly known as the 101 Critical Days of Summer, will focus on safety awareness in order to help save lives.

“The Summer Safety Campaign began more than thirty years ago and continues to this day due to a common rise in mishaps during the summer months,” said Travis Kilpack, 502nd Air Base Wing occupational safety manager. “With school out for all ages and with warmer weather we tend to get out of the house more and take more vacations, or go to the beach, boating, etc.  Combine these activities with alcohol and you increase the risk.”

Many mishaps can be avoided by reducing the amount of alcohol consumed during events and performing regular risk assessments.

“It’s not complicated,” Kilpack said. “Take the time to analyze the activity and determine the risk. Are you well prepared? Are you in proper athletic shape and do you have the right equipment? Plan accordingly. If you are driving, make a plan for stops and appropriate rest. If you are boating, wear sunscreen, lifejackets and take a boating class.”

While everyone is responsible for their own actions, it is the responsibility of every Airman, Soldier, Sailor, Marine and civilian member of JBSA to look out for each other.

“If you see someone who is doing something unsafe, don’t be afraid to speak up and stop them,” Kilpack said. “Sometimes it’s a simple, ‘Hey, put your helmet on,’ or asking, ‘Hey, can I give you a ride home, or get you a cab?’ Sometimes it takes real courage to stop someone from doing something dangerous, particularly in a group setting. But we should never be afraid to do and say the right thing.  Someone’s life may depend on it.”