Spring break a time for fun, safety

  • Published
  • By 96th Mission Support Group
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Airmen here are entering a time of increased opportunity and risk as local beaches host spring break visitors from across the nation.

Commanders across the base want to ensure their Airmen continue to think of safety as they enjoy this season.

"Being safe should be a top priority for everyone participating in sports or just enjoying the amenities this area has to offer," said Col. Bruce McClintock, 96th Air Base Wing commander. "I urge everyone to think ahead and plan activities; weigh all the options and plan for all contingencies."

Spring sports are starting up as warmer weather arrives. Use proper protocol to warm up before participating and check gear to ensure it's still safe after it's been sitting through the winter. Using the appropriate safety gear is critical when actively participating in sports. Protective gear refers to anything worn to help prevent injury. Generally, protective gear is specific to the type of sport being played, for example, helmets are required for riding bikes and playing baseball and mouth guards should always be worn for contact sports where the mouth can be hit.

"There are many ways to play safe when it comes to participating in sports, and wearing protective gear is a must, said Ron Kirby, Air Armament Center Safety Office. "Not only is it important to use the proper equipment, it is also important for the equipment to fit properly."

The Safety Office also noted that motorcycle riding picks up when the weather gets warmer. They are offering a Motorcycle Safety Event at 9 a.m. on March 13 at the Eglin Conference Center. There will be a safety briefing and a chance for drivers to test their skills driving through an obstacle course.

"If you drive, look out for motorcyclists. They're watching out for cars, but car drivers may not be used to seeing the motorcycles on the road so car drivers need to make a conscious effort to look for all vehicle movement," said Mr. Kirby. "The four deadliest words are 'I Didn't See Him.'"

Driving while intoxicated and drug availability continue to be areas of concern for base leaders. According to Col. Alan Bridges, 96th Mission Support Group commander, Eglin's Security Forces are no stranger to drugs.

"Gate guards have intercepted people transporting illegal drugs as they tried to pay the toll to cross the bridge here at our gate," Colonel Bridges said. "The Defenders are not our last line of defense--commanders can still conduct random urinalysis to protect our people from illegal drugs and refer Airmen to the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment program."

"We had 45 DUIs at Eglin AFB last year, resulting in 12 automobile accidents," the colonel said." In 2006, 38 percent of the 486 adult drownings in Florida were alcohol-related."

Eglin's goal continues to be 0-0-1-3: zero DUIs, zero underage drinking, no more than 1 drink per hour, no more than 3 drinks per night/party/outing.

"Designate a non-drinking driver, or call the Airman Against Drunk Driving (872-SAFE/7233) as a backup plan, if you're in an unsafe condition," Colonel Bridges said.