99th ABW vice-commander gives safety tips for freedom day Published June 30, 2009 By Col. Steve Winklmann 99th Air Base Wing vice commander NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- With the fourth of July nearly upon us, I would like to stress the importance of protecting our most valuable resource, our people. I know you've heard this said many times but it's true. Last year Team Nellis had 25 reportable mishaps and one fatality during the 101 Critical Days of Summer. These mishaps ranged in scope from sports and recreation, private motor vehicle accidents, and work related injuries. Of these, sports and recreation injuries are by far the overwhelming majority. I'd like to address these and a few other topics prior to the start of the long weekend. And finally stress the importance of the Wingman Practice. Sports and Recreation: As we all know, summer in Las Vegas can be a little unbearable when it comes to the heat index. Of course we can't let that stop us from playing our softball, football, and soccer games. We need to know a few things in order to play these, and any other outdoor sport, in order to be safe. First, hydration, hydration, hydration - if you only drink water when you're thirsty, it's already too late; you're behind the power curve. Thirst is your body's way of telling you you're dehydrated. It's important to drink water every 15 minutes while engaged in outdoor activity. Second, stretching - it's critical that you stretch and warm up your muscles before you start any activity. Whether you're hiking, jogging, or playing a game, give those muscles a warning that they are going to be used. Finally, play to your ability - you need to know your skill level. I'm not saying you shouldn't strive to improve, but it takes small steps to get to the pros, you don't just start there. Playing past your ability is the fastest way to an injury. Boating: As the weather heats up in the valley, many of us head to the water to cool down. There are several things to be aware of while you're out there. As mentioned above, stay hydrated. Even though you're surrounded by water, even swimming in the water doesn't equal staying hydrated. You must remember to drink your water. Also, you need to be aware of the dangers of drinking while boating. Even if you aren't drinking, other boaters are. You need to keep an eye out and keep a distance from other boaters. Finally, ensure you have all required equipment, to include properly fitted life vests for every passenger. Alcohol: Last year during the 101 Critical Days of Summer we lost one of our Team Nellis members to a preventable mishap. It's nothing new to any of us that drinking and driving is not only illegal, it can also be deadly. The bottom line is simple, don't drink and drive; this includes motorcycles. Have a plan before you go out and stick to that plan. If, as they so often do, the situation changes, call a friend, call a cab, call your supervisor, call AADD (652-2233), or stay where you are. There are plenty of options, but drinking and driving is never one of them. Wingman Practice: The wingman is there to protect you and keep you from injuring yourself. You need to have a wingman and be a wingman, too. Keep an eye out for your friend. You might be the only voice of reason and the only preventive measure that keeps someone from doing something that may jeopardize his or her life or the lives of people around them. You are all the best at what you do, and you deserve to relax and play. The key is to not put yourself in an unsafe position. Take the time to plan your activities and assess the risk of your plan. If you plan changes, take the time to re-evaluate what you're doing to ensure you stay safe. I sincerely hope every one of you enjoys the weekend, your friends and family, and the Las Vegas area or wherever you travel. Even more than that, I hope to see every one of you back safe and sound.
