Tyndall OSI offers tips for a safe, enjoyable Spring Break

  • Published
  • By Special Agent Brian Priester
  • 325th Fighter Wing Office of Special Investigation
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Panama City Beach is a hot spot for thousands of college and high-school students wanting to get away from school and party on their Spring Break vacation. Spring Break also attracts military personnel from Tyndall Air Force Base, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field AFB and other military installations that are only a few hours away. Unfortunately, many of these vacationers, to include military personnel, find themselves in a situation they are unfamiliar with.

Each year, spring breakers are arrested for possession of narcotics, battery, sexual assaults, theft, disorderly conduct, driving under the influence, underage drinking and public intoxication. Not only are these arrests an issue, but many spring breakers end up dead due to drowning, drug overdoses, vehicle accidents and other injuries such as falling from hotel balconies. Alcohol consumption and drugs are the main cause of these crimes, accidents and deaths. Individuals in the age range of 18 to 25 years of age are the most effected.

Local Law Enforcement Agencies, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the 325th Security Forces Squadron have made numerous arrests of military members and dependents during Spring Break for narcotics, driving under the influence and underage drinking. Unfortunately, this is a trend which continues each year.

The purpose of this article is to help keep military personnel and their families from career-ending or life-threatening incidents and to maintain their safety and continue the Tyndall mission.

The following are 10 tips to help lead to a safe and enjoyable spring break season: 

· Remember your Wingman; use the buddy system
· If you're under the age of 21, don't drink
· If you're over the age of 21, drink responsibly
· Always have a designated driver, take a cab, or call Airman Against Drunk Driving at 867-0220
· Never leave your drink unattended; date rape drugs are colorless and tasteless
· Illegal narcotics are abundant. If you come in contact with them, leave the area and report it to the proper authorities
· Be extremely careful when leaving a public area with an unknown individual
· Avoid swimming and other sports activity when under the influence of alcohol
· Avoid confrontation and violence. Walk away and report problems to authorities
· Follow all traffic laws and be a safe driver