Base exercises bring unique challenges to housing residents

  • Published
  • By Capt. Cindy Thuli
  • Chief, Installation Exercise Program
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  "Exercise, exercise, exercise."

A familiar phrase, but have you ever asked yourself, "What is an exercise?" or "What am I suppose to do?"

Air Force units conduct exercises to hone and refine their execution of mission essential and supporting tasks, validate training, improve response capabilities, and enhance and evaluate readiness, according to Air Force Instruction 10-204, "Participation in Joint and National Exercises."

The Air Force goal is to optimize the benefits of participating in these exercises. Exercise participation helps validate and refine training and procedures to ensure the base is always ready to respond.

Base-housing residents have less exposure to exercises than the military and civilians who work on base and are required to react accordingly.

Exercises on base bring unique challenges to housing residents, such as fluctuating security measures and unique threats. Exercises can impact the daily routines of families living on base.

Housing residents are encouraged to participate during exercises by taking appropriate actions so they are familiar and ready to react. This can also be a good opportunity for families with children to practice emergency procedures.

For instance, a steady-tone siren means a tornado is in the vicinity and you need to take shelter immediately.

Things to keep in mind during an exercise or real-world incident:
  • Follow all instructions from responders.
  • Travel only when necessary and make all attempts to avoid incident scene.
  • Do not go to the scene without a valid need. Allow the responders to do their jobs.
  • Expect delays and remain patient.
Next week, Jan. 28 through Feb. 1, is exercise week at Vance. With proper planning, in the office and in family housing, much of the frustration during exercises -- and real-world emergencies -- can be alleviated.