101 Critical Days of Summer campaign encourages road safety

  • Published
  • By Ground Safety Office
  • Ground Safety Office
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Air Force's 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign kicks off Memorial Day.

Summers are packed with excitement, barbecues, vacations and endless summer fun in the sun. Despite our best intentions scheduling these activities between work, family and daily commitments leaves us feeling rushed, distracted and often irritable. When out on the road this summer, it's important to push those stressful thoughts aside and focus on driving safely to reach our destination. As drivers, we must concentrate on the basics, buckle up, pay attention and be responsible behind the wheel.

Remember before you go on vacation, check your vehicle.
  • Get your windshield wipers and fluids checked.
  • Check your tires for uneven wear and proper inflation.
  • Ensure your battery cables are connected and clean.
  • Check on your brake lights.
  • Ensure there are no cracks in belts.
Summer is also the best season for motorcycle riders. The unusually consistent sunny weather enables longer rides with better conditions throughout California. Of course, more motorcycles on the road increases the likelihood of a motorcycle accident, but there are a few simple steps that riders can take to improve motorcycle safety by avoiding unnecessary risks. These actions involve wearing all appropriate safety equipment.

When you ride your motorcycle or are a passenger, follow these tips to stay safe:
  • Always wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet.
  • Never drive your motorcycle after drinking. Alcohol greatly impairs your ability to safely operate a motorcycle. If you have been drinking, get a ride home or call a taxi.
  • Don't let friends ride impaired. Take their keys away.
  • Wear protective clothing that provides some level of injury protection. Upper body clothing should also  include bright colors or reflective materials, so that other motorists can more easily see you.
  • Avoid tailgating and riding between lanes.
  • Maintain a safe speed and exercise caution when traveling over slippery surfaces or gravel.
The Air Force developed the Critical Days of Summer Campaign to raise awareness of safety during the summer season. The campaign is aimed at helping Airmen and Defense Department civilians mitigate hazards and understand safety has a role in everything, both on and off-duty. While all Airmen, military and civilian, have a commitment to the core values of integrity, service and excellence, we must also have a commitment to our family, friends, co-workers and country, to value safety.