Training, vigilance imperative in preventing motorcycle mishaps Published July 13, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Cynthia Haughton Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- As the weather gets warmer, more and more motorcyclists take to the streets. Las Vegas offers beautiful views of mountains, sunsets and the famous lights of the Strip, but there are also many dangers and threats here, especially to those on a motorcycle. It is important to remain focused on safety and not be distracted. "No matter how good of a rider you are, there will always be someone else on the road who isn't being attentive, or who is impaired," said Col. Henri Lambert, 99th Security Forces Group commander. "It's not a matter of 'if,' but 'when' a rider will lay their bike down. Even low-speed accidents can be fatal, and wearing a helmet could be enough to save your life." Lambert also added that, while Nevada has been working to repeal the helmet law for motorcyclists, Air Force members will still be required to wear a helmet, on and off base. Motorcycle riders cannot control how others will operate their vehicles; they can only control what they do themselves. Therefore, it is crucial to be committed to safety. Each rider must exercise special caution, know their limitations and make the right decisions when it comes to speed, reckless riding and alcohol use. As of April 19, motorcycle fatalities in the Air Force were up 150 percent since January 2011 compared to the same period last year. The Air Force has already suffered one permanent total disability and five fatal motorcycle mishaps. All the incidents had two common casual factors: no automobiles were involved and the rider lost control of his motorcycle. Tragedies such as these are preventable with proper training, and all military members are required to complete an approved motorcycle safety rider course every three years. To satisfy this requirement, Nellis offers a basic rider's course, held three to four times a month, and an experienced rider's course, held twice a month. "The three-day basic rider's course is for those individuals who have either never ridden a motorcycle or require refresher training to bring themselves back to a safe, comfortable riding capability," said Tech. Sgt. Jason Wilkes, 99th Air Base Wing Ground Safety technician. "The one-day experienced rider's course is geared toward frequent riders who are more confident in their abilities than new riders. Motorcycles are provided for the basic course, but riders are required to bring their own motorcycles to the experienced course." Both courses are free of charge to active duty and government civilian personnel, and are taught on base by Fire Station Three (flightline fire department). Air Force members are also required to wear personal protective equipment at all times while operating a motorcycle. The following PPE is required, on or off base, for Air Force personnel: · Department of Transportation-approved helmet · Approved eyewear or face shield · Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots · Full-fingered gloves · Long sleeves · Long pants · During the day: bright colors such as red, yellow, orange, white or lime green · During the hours of darkness: upper outer garment(s) with reflective properties that are clearly visible from the front, rear and sides. · Note: Predominately black and/or brown riding jackets do not meet the standard, therefore, they are not authorized. Reflective belts are not considered an upper outer garment. For questions or more information regarding motorcycle safety or the motorcycle rider's courses, call the 99 ABW Ground Safety office at 652-7602.
