101 Critical Days of Summer begins

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nestor Cruz
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR FORCE BASE, Japan --  Memorial Day weekend not only gave Kadena Airmen the chance to hit the beach or enjoy a barbecue with family and friends but also kicked off the 101 Critical Days of Summer - a deadly time of year for military members. 

The 101 Critical Days of Summer is an annual Air Force-wide campaign designed to raise safety awareness during this critical period. 

"The 101 Critical Days of Summer, which starts on Memorial Day and lasts until the Labor Day weekend, is the time of year when most of our fatalities, injuries and off-duty mishaps occur," said Tech. Sgt. Mark Hazelbaker, 18th Wing Safety Office ground safety NCO. "Most of these incidents are traffic and water related." 

Sergeant Hazelbaker said Kadena reported 11 mishaps during the 2006 summer season, one of which ended in death. Within the Air Force, 18 Airmen died last summer, the majority in traffic-related incidents. 

"Vehicle accidents are our number one killer," said Tech. Sgt. Jose Parra, NCO in charge of 18th Wing ground safety. "You increase your risk with the decisions you make when driving, such as driving without a seatbelt, not getting enough rest before a long trip or speeding." 

With the onset of the summer months, Kadena drivers are reminded to be watchful for children, pedestrians and other drivers who may be distracted. 

The 18th Wing Safety office also encourages Kadena members to make wise decisions when playing in the water. In fiscal years 2004 and 2005, the Air Force had six water-related fatalities per year. Although the number dropped to four deaths in fiscal year 2006, Sergeant Parra said "it's four too many." 

"People can reduce the risk factor by wearing protective equipment, such as a life vest, and by knowing what the sea conditions are," Sergeant Parra said. "It's also smart to do a little research on whatever activity you are planning to participate in." 

Sergeant Parra advises people to know their limits and be cautious. 

"If you're about to do an activity and something tells you it may be a bad idea, then it might be true," he said. 

The safety office NCOs also recommend having a wingman, friend or family member when participating in any potentially risky activity. Training is also key. 

"It's a good idea to be aware of the policies and get the proper training for any activity," Sergeant Hazelbaker said. "For example, if you're a beginner diver, you should never dive in advanced or expert areas." 

A simple method to remain safety conscious this summer is to remember the acronym "ACT": Assess the situation; Consider the options and Take responsible and appropriate action. 

"It's important for everybody to act responsibly, employ good personal risk management and make wise decisions," Sergeant Hazelbaker said. "We all need to look out for each other, because anyone can tell you the most important Air Force asset is its people. Without our people, we won't be able to get the mission done." 

For more information on safety-related topics, visit the 18th Wing Safety Office Web page by clicking the link on Kadena's secure Web site or call 634-6903. People can also find out the latest sea conditions by watching Armed Forces Network, calling the Kadena Marina at 634-6541 or the 18th Operations Support Squadron Weather Flight at 634-4081.