Education, smart thinking key to water safety

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel
  • 48th Fighter Wing Commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  As temperatures rise and daylight hours increase, I have no doubt many of you are making your way to the coasts of England and Europe, or to local swimming pools and lakes, to take part in water sports and activities we've been yearning for all winter.

Unfortunately, during the 101 Critical Days of Summer, the Air Force has seen a consistent rise in off-duty injuries caused by increased water sports activities and risk taking on the water. Whether you are going to a local pool or to a foreign beach, don't lose sight of safety while in or on the water.

Fortunately, there were no water fatalities involving Lakenheath members in 2005. I urge you to do your part to ensure this water-safety trend continues. Take the time to recognize the risks of water activities and prepare yourself. Here's how:

Educate yourself. CPR is invaluable training. Last year, one of our Airmen saved a child's life using CPR. You never know when you maybe called upon to use it, so be prepared. The American Red Cross offers CPR classes, and I encourage you and your family to take advantage of the safety training resources available. If you are going to operate a personal watercraft, take a safe boating class. These classes can reduce a potential boating accidents.

Be a good wingman. Alcohol and water-related activities don't mix. As in any situation, the presence of alcohol can greatly increase the chance of a mishap. Don't let your family members or friends lose sight of the consequences of irresponsible drinking, especially on water. Use good operational risk management by never swimming alone or allowing any family members or friends to swim alone.

Be smart. Swim only in designated areas where life guards are present, and wear a personal flotation device when engaging in other water activities such as boating, water skiing, surfing or jet skiing. Remember to heed all safety warnings, and also remember that when swimming in unfamiliar waters, enter the water feet first. Last year, a U.S. Air Forces in Europe Airman was hospitalized for two days after injuring his back when he jumped off a bridge into a river and landed in an awkward position. Using good ORM can prevent these incidents.

Our main goal for 101 Critical Days of Summer is zero mishaps. RAF Lakenheath cannot afford to lose any of its members. A fun day on the water shouldn't end in tragedy. You can reduce this risk by educating yourself, being a good wingman and thinking smart.