Holiday safety briefings planned

  • Published
  • By Lois Walsh
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Cooler weather has the Air Armament Safety Office heading toward its annual holiday traffic safety campaign.

The safety office has two major events scheduled to raise awareness and remind everyone to be extra cautious during the upcoming months.

The Save a Life Tour is scheduled Nov. 9 and 10, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Eglin gymnasium. It's an alcohol awareness program that is for base personnel but targets Airmen in the 18-26 year age group. There will be a mass briefing that includes a 12-minute introductory video of the devastating effects of drinking and driving that shows actual accidents, police response, emergency room scenes, and uncensored family responses.

Besides a briefing, a simulator will be available to provide a state-of-the-art, interactive driving experience that simulates driving under the influence of alcohol.

"Squadrons are signing up to give their people a chance to experience the simulators," said Robert Fusco, event facilitator & occupational health and safety technician. "They get a chance to sit down just like they were in a vehicle and see what it's like after consuming alcohol."

Mr. Fusco said the simulator will show sober drivers how cognitive skills are impaired, like the ability to judge distance and speed while under the influence.

Master Sgt. Robert Proctor, 96th Communications Group first sergeant, said all the Airmen assigned to his squadron has already been notified to attend. He hopes the information from the briefings will make an impact on his troops.

"I think it's very important that all young Airmen attend this briefing," Sergeant Proctor said. "It will definitely make my job easier if they pay attention and do not drink and drive. The consequences are just too important; we can't afford to lose anyone through careless actions."

The Holiday Safety Campaign will feature comedian Bernie McGrenahan, on Nov. 20, at the Eglin Conference Center. Two shows are scheduled, the first at 9 a.m. and the second at 1 p.m. Mr. McGrenahan is a motivational speaker whose message focuses on preventing alcohol and drug abuse, while also providing many laughs. He focuses on his personal experiences and struggles with drinking and substance abuse. Now twenty years drug and alcohol-free, he encourages Airmen throughout the world by delivering the message in training and prevention programs.

"Bernie loves those who serve this country," Mr. Ron Shenkel, co-event facilitator, said. He has fulfilled 25 oversea comedy tours for the USO and Department of Defense."

For more information on the Holiday Safety Campaign, call 882-7333. Register on the Air Armament Academy website for attendance credit.