Kadena starts the summer off right with Motorcycle Safety Day Published May 21, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Angelique Perez 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Kadena's motorcycle enthusiasts got a head start on the "101 Critical Days of Summer" with Motorcycle Safety Day May 18. The safety day was held to highlight safe riding practices and bring awareness of the growing concern for motorcycle safety in the Air Force not only to the riders, but to everyone who shares the road. Chief Master Sgt. Michael Warner, 18th Wing command chief, opened the day's events with some comments on the importance of protective gear and staying alert while riding. He said you can be the best, safest, most experienced rider in the world, but if people are driving unsafe around you then you can still get hit. "The 101 Critical Days of Summer starts Friday, May 22," said Tech Sgt. Jason Edwards, wing motorcycle safety representative from the 18th Wing Public Affairs Office. "Our goal is to get through the 101 days without incident. Of course, living in Okinawa, we have decent riding weather pretty much year-round so our 101 critical days is more like 365." To achieve this goal, wing safety representatives are reminding riders to maintain continuous use of personal protective gear, attend the motorcycle safety course prior to riding in Okinawa, mind the speed limits, and use common sense when riding in inclement weather. In addition to attending the required safety courses, riders must wear appropriate rider safety gear. This safety gear includes full-fingered gloves, sturdy shoes, pants and a long sleeve shirt. Wing Safety representatives also wanted to make a note for other vehicle drivers to stay alert and always be aware of motorcyclists while driving. "Please keep an eye out for your two-wheeled counterparts," said Tech. Sgt. Edwards. "A motorcycle can be harder to spot than a car or truck. A simple fender bender can mean loss of life or limb to a rider." Motorcycle Safety Foundation instructors set up a safety course where riders could take their bikes after the mandatory briefing and run through maneuvers. They also provided tips for safe riding in Okinawa. One tip, specific to Okinawa, is to stay away from splitting lanes and passing on the shoulder. Though common with the local riders in Okinawa, it is an extremely dangerous practice and should not be emulated by SOFA-status personnel. "We can't afford to lose you to an injury, and of course we don't want to lose you to a fatality," said Chief Warner. "The bottom line is that the Air Force, the wing, your nation, and your family need you. So, you've got to be safe." The day was supposed to finish up with a group ride and other activities, but due to inclement weather, the activities had to be cancelled and will be rescheduled for sometime in June.