Safety tips help avoid Labor Day mishaps

  • Published
  • By Leroy Wrighten
  • Air Force Flight Test Center Ground Safety
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Labor Day weekend is considered to be the official end of the "101 Critical Days of Summer." 

This year, our mishaps are down compared to last year. We can maintain this trend through the Labor Day weekend by following simple safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

If you are planning on getting away for the weekend, plan your trip so you have plenty of time to reach your destination safely. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained and ready for the trip. You should always drive defensively. Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, failing to yield the right of way and following too closely. 

Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts prevent severe injuries in nonfatal crashes. If you have a child requiring a car seat, make sure it is the appropriate size and installed correctly in the back seat. 

Don't let drinking and driving turn your celebration into a tragedy. Even moderate consumption of wine or beer impairs your ability to make proper decisions. Don't drive when taking medications that make you drowsy. Stop and rest when you become tired or sleepy. 

Going hiking, biking or camping this weekend? If you and your family are going to be under the sun for extended periods, remember to use sun block. To work effectively, sun block should be applied 30 minutes prior to exposure to the sun. Also, protect your skin with hats and lightweight cotton clothes. On hot days, spend time in shaded areas and hike in the cooler mornings and evenings. 

If riding your bicycle on a roadway with other vehicle traffic, use caution and follow the rules of the road. Always wear an approved helmet when riding a bicycle or a motorcycle. 

If you are camping, please remember the fire danger is very high this year. Follow all posted regulations for the area in which you are camping. If you are in an area that allows campfire, never leave your fire unattended, and make sure it is out completely before leaving your campsite. 

We hope you and your family celebrate the holiday weekend by participating in activities you most enjoy and everyone remains safe while doing so. Utilizing these safety tips will increase the probability of everyone remaining safe during the Labor Day weekend. 

Remember, be safe out there.