Kunsan kicks-off 101 Critical Days of Summer

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Claudette Hutchinson
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The periods between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, May 28 to Sept. 7, is recognized by the Air Force as the 101 Critical Days of Summer.

The reason for this is because during the summer season there is increased risk and more mishaps occurring, more than any other time of the year.

The 8th Fighter Wing Safety Office encourages the Wolf Pack community to be especially focused on safety throughout the summer months. Air Force statistics show that mishaps increase during this time -- especially those involving off-duty activities.

"I want all members of the Wolf Pack to enjoy the summer weather and have fun during off-duty time in Korea, but we need them to do it safely," said Lt. Col. Neil Oakden, 8th FW chief of safety. "Our Airmen are the Wolf Pack' s most valuable assets, and we cannot execute the wing' s mission without them. Any Airman lost to a mishap ultimately reduces the Wolf Pack' s combat capability."

As the weather gets warmer more and more people are engaging in their favorite activities such as picnicking, camping, boating, swimming, playing sports and fishing, to name a few.

The theme for this year is "I Can Save My Own Life."

According to Air Force safety statistics, during this period last year the Air Force lost 22 Airmen which was a 23 percent increase from 2008. Also, Pacific Air Forces lost two Airmen during the same period last year due to preventable private motor vehicle mishaps. The goal of the campaign is zero preventable mishaps.

"Think before you act, and don't be afraid to call a 'knock it off' if you see someone doing something dangerous. Take a few moments to exercise personal ORM [operational risk management] not only for your life but for the life of your Wingman as well," said Lieutenant Colonel Oakden.

The wing safety office will be conducting added events throughout the base during the designated period, in an effort to try and prevent the preventable.

The first event will be on May 28 which includes the use of the "drunken" goggles and golf cart in the main exchange parking lot. These goggles simulate the actual percentage of blood alcohol content levels. People will be asked to drive the cart while wearing these goggles. The purpose of this is to create awareness and to educate people, in a safe way, about the impairment caused by alcohol and its effects while driving.

Throughout the campaign months, the safety office will also be conducting weekly quizzes and surveys. This is to remind everyone that they need to include safety practices, daily, whether at work or at play.

Preventing the preventable during this year's 101 Critical Days of Summer and beyond will depend largely on the support given by and to everyone here at the Wolf Pack. It is the responsibility of each commander, supervisor, coworker, Wingman and friend to encourage each other to make safe and responsible decisions in their activities.

"Our goal is simple," said General Gary L. North, PACAF commander. "I challenge every Airman to use personal risk management that promotes responsible and safe behavior, especially during the Critical Days of Summer."