SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. –
In a sincere effort to save lives and prevent accidents, the commander of Air Mobility Command urges Airmen to get "Back to Basics at Home and Work," the theme of this year's AMC Critical Days of Summer campaign.
"We must ensure that everything we do, on and off duty, is completely thought through, especially during the summer months," said Gen. Arthur Lichte.
AMC's 2009 CDS season began May 22 and runs through Sept. 8. According to AMC ground safety officials, a seasonal increase in fatalities among Airmen normally occurs between the Memorial Day and Labor Day holidays.
Air Force wide, 16 fatalities occurred during the 2008 season. AMC, however, reached its goal of zero fatalities for the first time in the command's history.
This year's goal goes beyond achieving zero fatalities.
"We also are trying to reduce reportable mishaps by 25 percent," said General Lichte.
A reportable mishap ranges in definition from any injury or occupational illness affecting job performance to fatalities, as well as any incident resulting in significant costs.
General Lichte said during the summer months "an increase in vehicle use and water-sport activities poses an even greater threat to our Airmen and their families."
Historically, alcohol use and fatigue have been contributing factors in accidents associated with these activities.
"Either one of these factors on their own poses increased risk," said General Lichte, "but when they are mixed, the results can be even more disastrous."
Last year, AMC experienced 101 mishaps. Of these, 16 were private motor vehicle mishaps and 32 were from sports and recreation.
To help counter the risks associated with the CDS, AMC is hosting a variety of activities throughout the season to promote safety awareness and accident prevention.
The "Save a Life" tour uses drinking and driving simulators to give Airmen a sober and realistic perspective of driving under the influence of alcohol.
AMC also will be offering "Alive at 25," a defensive driving course and will continue educating with the AMC Sport Bike Course in efforts to keep Airmen alive.
"Last year, our sport bike course provided outstanding training to more than 550 riders," General Lichte said.
Motor vehicle mishaps are not the only accidents that can take the life of an Airman.
Drowning is the second leading cause of fatalities among Airmen during the summer months.
"So I ask you to always have a wingman when you swim," said General Lichte, "and if you are going to drink, don't swim."
While most summer tragedies happen during recreation away from the work environment, AMC safety officials also emphasize the importance of safety in the workplace.
Last year, 31 percent of AMC mishaps were industrial or on-duty.
To combat work related accidents, officials and supervisors plan to share safety ideas, inspect work areas and increase employee involvement in safety programs.
General Lichte said prevention, awareness and involvement are key to the success of this year's safety campaign.
"Every Airman is vital to the success of our Air Force and we cannot afford to lose you," he said.