An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Fatal-free Critical Days of Summer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Air Education and Training Command recently announced 2010 as the command's first-ever fatality-free 101 Critical Days of Summer.

"AETC averages 3.05 fatalities annually during the Critical Days of Summer," said Mr. Robbie Bogard, AETC Headquarters safety and occupational health specialist. "To turn this number to 'zero' speaks volumes to the efforts of the entire safety team across the command."

Tyndall Airmen have done their part. Since the campaign kick-off in May, Tyndall's automobile accidents have been reduced 80 percent from last year's campaign.

"Traffic accidents are still the number one killer in the Air Force," said Mr. Ed Best, 325th Fighter Wing ground safety manager. "The Air Force loses about 50 people a year to traffic accidents and 70 percent of those are due to reckless behavior."

One of the reckless behaviors is driving under the influence of alcohol. As good Wingmen, Airmen should always establish a plan before celebrating.

The last AETC fatality was Nov. 21, 2009, more than 300 days ago. As of now, AETC's short-term goal is to reach the end of the Air Force fiscal year with no fatalities.The long-term goal is to make it a whole year, fatality-free, which is less than 60 days away. But, the ultimate goal is zero fatalties for as long as conceivable.

Every Airman has a role in reaching these goals. Always wear a seatbelt, don't drink and drive, minimize cell phone distractions while driving and slow down. It is also important to be aware of poor drivers on the road.

Tyndall Airmen should still remain vigilant while enjoying the remaining warm days on the Emerald Coast. It is vital during the summer months for Airmen who take part in water recreation and sports to have proper training and guidance as well as all required safety equipment.

"With the extended summer weather we have here at Tyndall, our Critical Days of Summer program lasts about 180 days, not just the Air Force focus of 101," said Lt. Col. Travis Koch, 325th Fighter Wing Safety Chief. "I am proud of what Tyndall has accomplished this summer and as we transition into the fall and the holiday season, we can refocus our safety mindset and wingman concepts."