Stop summer tragedies with good risk management Published June 12, 2013 VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The Air Force is off to a bad start for summer safety this year, according to stats compiled by the Air Combat Command's safety office. Since May 23, Airmen across the Air Force have died or suffered injury while participating in summer activities. May 23 a senior airman was killed when his car hit a telephone pole and a staff sergeant was mowing his lawn and amputated his toe. May 24 a senior airman died during a sanctioned boxing match. May 26 an airman first class was paralyzed from injuries sustained during a mountain-bike race. May 31 an airman first class lost control of his motorcycle and was killed. June 2 a senior airman was in a car accident, was ejected from the vehicle and died. An airman first class, while operating a car at a high rate of speed, lost control, struck a pole, hit other cars before catching on fire - and died. June 3 a technical sergeant collided with a car while riding his motorcycle and was killed. That's six active duty deaths and two disabling injuries in just 12 days! "Every one of us, whether a commander, supervisor, first sergeant or Wingman, must continue to stress the importance of personal risk management," said Lt. Col. Steve Todd, the 71st Flying Training Wing chief of Safety at Vance Air Force Base. "Most preventable mishaps come down to making smart choices," he said. "Choices that can stop the next tragedy from happening." Summer is meant to be enjoyed. There is nothing wrong with having a good time, but have a solid plan, get the right training, wear personal protective equipment and don't exceed your limits. Live to play, play to live.