Keep safe during 101 Critical Days of Summer

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Katherine Tereyama
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  With summer on the horizon, people are planning the camping, beach trips and barbecues that everyone has looked forward to all winter. With that in mind, the 31st Fighter Wing Safety Office has some tips and messages to keep people safe this season.

"From recent research conducted, it was determined that 81 percent of fatalities last year occurred during the summer," said Tech. Sgt. Adrian Hall, 31st FW ground safety official. "The summer is typically the time of year when many people tend to take advantage of the weather and enjoy many of the activities and opportunities that are available."

May 24 marks the unofficial start of summer and the beginning of this year's 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, created to avert the increased hazards and risks that come with the warmer days. According to the National Safety council, more than 400 fatal vehicle accidents and 43,500 medically-consulted injuries are estimated to take place on Memorial Day weekend alone.

"Many times, people participate in activities without training, experience, or knowledge of the hazards and what to do to combat them," Hall said. "These tendencies to let down our guard and take unnecessary risks are often the reasons behind mishaps."

This mishap trend continues throughout the 101 Critical Days of Summer, making this the most dangerous time of year for service members and their families. The Defense Department's safety campaign aims to increase understanding and give service members' the tools to prevent dangers involved with recreational activities.

"Providing this information may ultimately save people from potential tragedy," Hall continued. "I feel that it is very important, especially being in Aviano, to enjoy the opportunities that are available. At the same time, ensuring that we have the correct knowledge, training and experience will allow us to come back at the end of the day and enjoy even more opportunities along the way."

Hall provided these safety tips so that Team Aviano members can make it through the summer season injury free:

Heat Injuries:
- Hydrate with water or sports drinks before, during and after exercise
- Avoid exercising outside during the hottest part of the day
- Wear light, loose clothing
- Use sunscreen

Boating Safety:
- Don't overload the boat
- Know the limits of the boat
- Be aware of other boats, swimmers and objects in the water
- Ensure driver and passengers wear approved flotation devices
- Operate at a safe and legal speed limit
- Heed weather warnings
- Ensure you have plenty of fuel and are using the correct containers
- Check all safety equipment before disembarking
- Secure the boat properly
- Do not drink while operating a boat

Swimming Safety:
- Always swim with a partner
- Never allow children to swim without adult supervision
- Never swim when you are tired, under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication
- Know and observe your swimming limitations
- Avoid currents and swift moving water
- Stay out of the water during thunderstorms and severe weather
- Always test water depth before diving
- Fence and lock pools

Fireworks:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks
- Read and follow instructions
- Ensure people and flammable materials are at a safe distance before lighting fireworks
- Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned
- Keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby

Barbecues:
- Place grill in well-ventilated area away from children
- Wear fitted clothing to avoid contact with fuel or fire
- Stand up-wind when lighting the fire
- Do not use flammable liquids
- Do not leave the fire unattended

Sports Injuries:
- Wear proper protective equipment
- Ensure you are physical able to play
- Do warm-up exercises before participating in any physical activity
- Wear reflective clothing
- Carry a whistle or cell phone

Playground Safety:
- Supervise children at all times
- Use both hands when climbing
- Remain seated on swings
- Use slides one at a time

Bicycle Safety:
- Use arm and hand signals
- Wear an approved helmet
- Avoid riding at night if possible
- Ride with traffic
- Install lights and wear reflective clothing

Vehicle Safety:
- Prepare for road trips with a safety check and packing emergency items
- Children younger than 16 should not ride all-terrain vehicles
- Never drive an ATV on paved roads
- Do not drive (any vehicle) while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Never drive an ATV with a passenger