"Critical Days of Summer" safety campaign kicks off

  • Published
  • By Kevin Gaddie
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 101 Critical Days of Summer safety campaign began May 14 at the enlisted hall with safety briefings on drinking and driving; drinking and boating and swimming.

"We give these briefings to keep you safe, to keep you alive, and to keep you coming back to your families," said Brig. Gen. David Harris, 96th Test Wing commander, in his opening remarks.  "We're all looking out for you.  We want you to be safe during the summer safety campaign, and at all times."

Next, Ashley Bailey, with the Okaloosa County's sheriff department's crime prevention unit, spoke about the cost of a DUI and BUI, firearm safety, and gave traffic safety tips.

"The fines for a driving under the influence drinking or boating under the influence conviction add up to about $15,000," she said. "Please consider having a designated driver or taking a taxi instead of drinking and driving, or drinking and boating."

Running red lights, unlocked vehicles and firearms left in unlocked vehicles are trending upward, Bailey said.

"From 2014 to the present, approximately 88 firearms were stolen from unlocked vehicles," she said.  "More than half of those vehicles belonged to military personnel.  Many of those firearms are now in Okaloosa County criminals' hands, and can be used against our law enforcement officers, and against you."

Joe Reichal, a member of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Destin - Fort Walton Beach, offered maritime safety advice and sobering boating mishap numbers.

"In 2014 there were 4,060 boating accidents, 610 deaths, 2,678 injuries, and approximately $39 million in boating accident costs nationwide, and alcohol was the main contributing factor in many of those accidents," he said.  "We don't want you to be a statistic in 2015.  If you don't take anything else from this briefing, I encourage all of you to always wear a life jacket while boating."

Reichal also encouraged attendees who practice boating to attend the auxiliary's boating safety classes. He also urged them to have their boats examined; and insure their boats have the proper identification and documentation and are properly equipped with life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares and other safety equipment.

Ross Carter, senior lifeguard with Okaloosa County Beach Safety, talked about drinking alcohol and swimming; stressed observing beach signs and warning flags; and encouraged seeking shelter when lightning is present.

He explained how to escape from a rip current as well.

"Relax and swim parallel to the beach, until you're clear of it," he said.  "The important thing is not to panic."

Carter said while at the beach with children, it's important to "have an adult set of eyes on them at all times."

Senior Airman Breana Hart, a member of Eglin's mental health clinic, encouraged the '0-0-1-3' concept of zero drinks if underage, zero drinks if driving, one drink per hour and no more than three drinks in an evening.

"Please be good wingmen, and be responsible," she said.

Capt. John Richardson, 96th Test Wing chaplain, spoke last.  He challenged the attendees to take stock of their physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being during the safety campaign.

"We value your lives and your contributions to the Air Force," he said.  "Please be mindful of these critical areas of your lives.  Have fun, be safe and have a great summer."