Save A Life Tour brings DUI reality to base

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stacy Sanchez
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  To help prevent driving under the influence, the Air Force Flight Test Center Safety office hosted the National Save A Life Tour at hangar 1600 here May 15 and 16.
 
The Save A Life Tour, promoted by "Edu-tainment" by Kramer Inc. and FAAC Inc., was developed to teach people about the effects of alcohol. 

"We are trying to find ways to reduce the number of DUIs on base," said Vince Duny, ground safety chief. "We figured the tour would be a great opportunity to inform people about DUIs." 

To provide Edwards with a better understanding of the risks involved with drinking and driving, images of real-life tragedies were shown. Participants also had the opportunity to operate a drunk driving simulator to feel the effects of alcohol while drinking. 

"We hope the tour got the point across about the impact people have when they are behind the wheel," said Alan Lederman, ground safety specialist. "Having the simulator gave a first-hand look at what it is like to drive under the influence. I hope base employees learned the responsibilities they take when they have the keys and choose to sit behind the wheel."

The Save A Life Tour was open to all of Team Edwards. However, attendance was mandatory for Edwards military ages 26 and under. 

"This is not to say that the 26 and under are the only ones who drink and drive," Mr. Duny said. "We have some older individuals who are also driving under the influence. Speeding on base is another factor we face. We receive the daily police reports and average 12 speeding incidences daily. When you combine speeding and drinking together, it is just an accident waiting to happen." 

The Save A Life Tour also visited Desert High School here May 17.

"These kids are beginning to learn to drive, so it is good for them to learn the responsibilities of getting behind the wheel and driving with other folks," Mr. Lederman said. "I hope this tour had a good impact on them." 

The event also featured displays from organizations such as Environmental Management, the 95th Security Forces Squadron, the Green Knights Motorcycle Club and Airmen Against Drunk Driving. 

"Since we are getting into the 101 Critical Days of Summer, we want to inform the base about drinking and driving," said Senior Airman Deonna Bell, 95th SFS installation patrolman. "Our hope is to have everyone safe and ready for the summertime." 

Since the base has had several DUIs this year, Mr. Lederman said he hopes the tour re-emphasized and made people aware of the effects people have when they drink and drive. 

"You have to think about yourself, your family and those who are on the road with you," Mr. Lederman said. "Plain and simple, drinking and driving is just not the right choice."