Training required for motorcyclists to ride on base Published May 25, 2007 By Frank McIntyre 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Summer isn't bringing just warmer weather to Vance Air Force Base. Rising temperatures and gas prices have also brought a dramatic increase in the number of motorcycle riders. "We've seen about a twofold increase in the number of riders we have attending our safety course," said George Wagner, 71st Flying Training Wing weapons safety manager. "Whether or not it's a mandatory requirement, all Team Vance riders should attend one of these courses just to increase their situational awareness when on a motorcycle." Air Force directives require all military and Air Force civilian personnel operating motorcycles, motor scooters or mopeds on Air Force installations to complete a safety course that includes hands-on training and evaluation. "The required training has helped us reduce the number of motorcycle related fatalities as we have gained in rider numbers," Mr. Wagner said. "The Air Force has a much better record than the civilian community that has seen a rise in fatalities." Last year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released a report that showed motorcycle rider fatalities increased for the seventh year in a row. Since 1997, fatalities have increased an alarming 89 percent, from 2,116 in 1997 to 4,008 in 2004. "The bottom line is, for their own protection, motorcyclists need adequate training to safely ride on and off Vance AFB. They're already at a disadvantage because four-wheel vehicle drivers just don't observe them as they should--one primary cause of motorcycle accidents," Mr. Wagner concluded. "This is one reason why it is so important that motorcyclists satisfactorily complete a training course." For information on the motorcycle training courses, call wing safety at 7793 or visit the office in Bldg. 455.