In preparation for the winter months and upcoming holidays, the Air Force has begun this year’s Holiday Winter Safety campaign, the theme of which is Safe-n-Sound, All Year Round.
The campaign is slated to run from Nov. 16 through Jan. 2, 2013 and focuses on proper risk management during any and all activities this winter season.
“Safety is of the utmost importance for anyone, but especially for military members because it helps us sustain mission readiness,” said Tech Sgt. Kevin Armstrong, 355th Fighter Wing non-commission officer in charge of Ground Safety.
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season leaves many people stressed out and unfocused, which can increase their probability of making mistakes.
“The holiday season leads to so many mishaps because most people are doing activities they normally don’t do,” Armstrong said. “The unfamiliarity, coupled with all the distractions the season brings can lead to injuries while cooking, driving, and any number of seemingly safe activities.”
The colder weather also brings new sports activities, such as skiing or snowboarding.
“Individuals need to practice situational awareness while doing any activity,” Armstrong said.
In a letter to Airmen written at the start of the campaign, signed by Michael Donley, Secretary of the Air Force, General Mark Welsh, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and Chief Master Sgt. James Roy, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, leadership urged Airmen to be vigilant when it came to their safety and that of those around them.
“All Airmen, uniformed and civilian, have a responsibility to ensure a safe holiday for themselves, their fellow Airmen, their wingmen, and their families by being alert to safety risks on-and-off-duty,” the letter reads. “We urge you to use common sense and keep your focus on risk management as we strive to enjoy a mishap-free season.”
