Relaxing summer season is Air Force’s deadliest

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Thomas R. Barger
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The 101 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day account for 60 percent of Air Force fatalities during the year.

Why does less than one third of the year account for more than half of Air Force deaths?

"The summer allows for an opportunity to relax and refresh; however, many of the activities we pursue during our vacation time put us at risk for accidents that have potentially serious consequences," said Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, in a safety message for all Department of Defense employees.

The summer weather is a draw for increased activity.

Motorcycles and travelers ride the roadways, droning machinery manicures the lawns, and bon-fires, barbeques and booze tend to meet up more often during these 101 critical days.

Complacent attitudes during the first long drive, the first grass cut or the first outdoor barbeque can turn a harmless afternoon into a costly cleanup.

"Not too long ago, an individual attempted to light a barbecue grill and it did not ignite," said Craig Wetherington, the Ground Safety Manager for the 71st Flying Training Wing Safety office. "He had the propane on full, both knobs on ignite, but when he hit the plunger nothing happened.

"Unfortunately, he walked away for about five minutes, came back and hit the igniter," said Wetherington.

The grill exploded into the side of the house resulting in burn injuries and a sizeable house-fire, said Wetherington.

"It is very important, every time you mess with propane, to ensure all of your valves and connections are completely tight and not leaking," advised Wetherington. Seemingly obvious words of advice that are, nonetheless, necessary.

After a long winter, the excitement of the season's first barbecue can deter the cook from taking the time to make a few simple safety checks, he explained.

While grilling safety is important, Wetherington is more concerned about the commute to the summer festivities.

Motor vehicle incidents are the leading cause of Air Force fatalities during the summer months. The three most common factors are motorcycles, single drivers speeding and driving while tired, according to Wetherington.

"Make sure when you take the trip that you do it rested," advised Wetherington.

Remember to take care of the little things, as they tend to have an influence on the big things.

"We are so used to our vehicle starting when we want it to start that we ignore the routine minor maintenance items," said Wetherington. Making sure maintenance items like routine oil changes, proper tire pressure and functional windshield wipers are taken care of prior to a road trip can significantly decrease the risk of having an unfortunate experience.

Military members are required to complete Air Education and Training Command Form 410 and discuss any safety concerns with their supervisor prior to taking part in high risk activities.

Common high risk summer time activities can include operating all-terrain vehicles, partaking in water sport activities and even rock climbing and spelunking at some of Oklahoma's national parks.

When military members have an accident, they are required to report it to their home station safety office as soon as possible. Reporting any and all incidents allows safety offices to identify hazards and develop methods to help prevent them from reoccurring.

"You are an asset and a tax payer investment," said Wetherington. "Just think, 'how can this potentially unsafe situation play out?' and then think, 'what can I do differently?'"

These questions can also be directed toward your Wingmen. Look out for each other and have fun that is worth remembering. That way when you look back on it, you can enjoy it a second time.

For more information regarding safety hazards and safety tips during the summer months stop by Craig Wetherington in the base safety office in Building 455.