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.”