Being prepared at the Airshow

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Alex Echols
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 2015 Gulf Coast Salute Open House and Air Show is almost here, which means excitement for all ages. The 325th Medical Group and 325th Fighter Wing Safety Office want to ensure everyone has a safe, healthy and fun time out on the flightline.

During the air show, the flightline will be buzzing with activity. Attendees will be on an active runway and the loud noises and amazing acts may be distracting, but it is imperative for everyone to always be aware of their surroundings to prevent any injury.

"We're in partnership with Bay County Emergency Medical Services to provide medical support to the performers and the patrons of the event," said Senior Master Sgt. Lonney Johnson, 325th Medical Operations Squadron superintendent. "Our sole job is to make sure that they are safe and sound and taken care of."

For anyone needing medical attention, there will be a medical tent set up close to the air show entrance and roving medics traveling through the crowd.    

"In the event of a real medical emergency, attendees should call 911 as they would in any other situation," said Johnson. "For anything less than a 911 call, they should be able to flag down a roving medic or work their way to the medical tent for evaluation."

Attendees should have a plan in place in case someone from their group gets separated. Once inside the show, identifying a landmark to meet at in the event of a separation will ease any confusion.

Here is a list provided by the 325th FW Safety Office of recommended items to bring to maximize attendees' fun and ensure their wellbeing:

Water - Don't get dehydrated. Refreshments will be available at various tents, but your own supply of water may come in handy. Don't rely on caffeinated beverages to prevent dehydration.
Sunscreen / Bug spray / Lip balm - You'll probably be in the sun a lot. Beware cloudy or hazy days - you may get more sun than you think. Make sure everyone in your group is covered.
Hats - A hat can make a lot of difference to your comfort level. Many people prefer to wear hats with wide brims for better protection.
Ear protection - Jets make a lot of noise. Ensure your group is well protected.
Prescribed medicine - If you have any medical supplies you will need throughout the day, you should bring it in its prescription container or bring proof of prescription.
Sunglasses - You should bring polarized lenses, which are especially good for shows since they reduce glare.
Something to sit or lie on - Take something to use as a drop sheet if you are going to be sitting or lying on the ground or bring lawn or camping chairs.
Rain gear - Be prepared for showers. The air show will continue in light rain as long as the clouds are high enough.
Moist towelettes - There will be outdoor bathroom facilities but having a way to freshen up afterwards is a good idea.
Binoculars - If you want to get a closer look at the acts, bring low and medium power binoculars, which tend to work well for checking out detail. Higher powers are difficult to use for aircraft in flight.
Camera and film - Ensure you have extra batteries and memory cards so you can catch all the action.

Admission and parking for the show will be free and security will be emphasized: no coolers (unless needed for medical reasons), pets, weapons, knives, glass bottles or containers will be allowed. 

For more information, please visit www.gulfcoastsalute.com, the official website for this year's air show.