Enjoy Labor Day holiday weekend

  • Published
  • By Col. Bryan Benson
  • 71st Flying Training Wing
Vance Air Force Base, Okla. --  With a successful Operational Readiness Inspection in our rear view mirror, Team Vance has one more hurdle to overcome to make it a truly "outstanding" summer.
The long Labor Day weekend is the last major summer holiday and marks the end of our 101 Critical Days safety campaign.
Historically, this weekend claims more lives and produces more injuries than any other holiday weekend. You've all earned a well-deserved break following the summer long ORI preparation and inspection. You don't want an avoidable mishap dimming that after-ORI glow.
Thanks to an aggressive 101 Critical Days campaign conducted by our safety office and unit safety representatives, Team Vance has had only one reportable incident this summer. You've embraced the wingman approach to caring for each other and it has paid dividends. Keep up the great work.
Many of you will be taking to the highways this weekend. Remember to comply with all traffic laws, drive defensively, allow time for adequate rest during long trips and always wear your seat belt. I expect you to be safe this weekend and enjoy the down time with your family and friends, but do so responsibly. Our goal this weekend is zero mishaps.
Those of us that will remain in the local area for the weekend also need to keep safety in mind. Even those backyard barbecues and pool parties can present hazards if you aren't mindful of the safety concerns they present.
Safety is also the driving force behind the upcoming Environmental Safety Occupational Health Compliance Assessment Management Program inspection, better known as the ESOHCAMP, to be conducted here September 12 to 16. This inspection is just as important as the ORI because it helps assess the status of environmental, safety and occupational compliance. It will allow us to identify and track solutions to compliance and management and that leads to your well-being. Now is the time for commanders to take a moment and confirm that good housekeeping procedures are being conducted in their workspace. Make sure all hazardous materials are properly labeled and stored and that pertinent records are available to inspectors upon request. Be especially vigilant that items such as flammables and paints are in proper lockers and normal janitorial supplies are properly stored.
Finally, we need to keep those affected by Hurricane Katrina in our thoughts and prayers. I know many of you have asked what you can do to help and we will be providing directions for channeling efforts as we receive guidance on what is needed.
Have a safe and enjoyable weekend and don't forget to watch your wingman. Thanks for all you do for America, Team Vance.