Safety is a team effort

  • Published
  • By Gen. Bruce Carlson
  • Air Force Materiel Command commander
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  The Air Force developed the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign in the late 1960s to counter the traditional increase in mishaps and fatalities during the summer months. This year, our 101 CDOS initiative "Safety is a team effort" began on May 23 and ends on Sept. 2. 

So far, the Air Force has lost several Airmen due to off-duty fatal mishaps, and just this past weekend, Air Force Materiel Command lost one of our team members at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., in a motorcycle accident. The individual did not receive Air Force motorcycle training and lost control while attempting to navigate a curve. 

Here's how I see it. 

Every one of you is critical to our mission at AFMC and to the Air Force. We cannot afford to lose one of you to preventable incidents. Each and every loss impacts the family, friends and unit of all involved. Through teamwork, we can reduce the number of mishaps and fatalities. 

During the 101 CDOS, the Air Force traditionally experiences the highest number of fatalities between July 2 and 8. Many of us are excited about the upcoming 4th of July weekend and may add an extra day onto this holiday. This well-deserved time off brings increased risks to include travel, water-related sports, outdoor activities, social gatherings and fireworks. 

I encourage you to use the mishap prevention tools available through your unit safety representatives and the AFMC Safety Office Community of Practice, which is updated weekly. Thank you for the tremendous amount of work, support and leadership you have already provided. I ask for your continued leadership and vigilance during the remaining summer weeks and throughout the year. Please stay safe and enjoy the long weekend with your friends and family.