Officials urge Ellsworth to include safety in summer activities

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  As spring gives way to summer, Airmen, families and civilians will be taking advantage of the warmer weather and participating in outdoor activities.

As they get out and about, base officials are urging them to be mindful of their personal safety, especially when engaging in recreation.

Last summer, 83 Department of Defense military members lost their lives while participating in summer recreational activities and while operating private motor vehicles according to Capt. Gavin O'Brien, 28th Bomb Wing acting chief of safety.

"I encourage Airmen to enjoy the summer season, but to also stay diligent when it comes to safety," O'Brien said. "When engaging in recreational activities, it's important to slow down and take a moment to analyze the situation and mitigate any risks that could result in loss of life or injury."

Staff Sgt. Joel Nobles, 28th BW ground safety technician, explained that Airmen are responsible for their own well-being, but should also look out for others.

"With the weather getting better and more people getting out, we need to make sure that we're looking out for each other," said Nobles.

Nobles said that when participating in activities like hiking or playing sports, the most common mishaps are minor injuries such as sprained ankles and twisted knees.

"People need to research activities prior to participating in them for the first time," Nobles said. "People need to know what they're doing and understand the risks they are assuming before they go out to have fun."

In addition to mitigating the risks with sports and outdoor activities, Nobles said everyone should be aware of motorcycle safety - whether they ride or not.

"In the Air Force, motorcycle mishaps and related injuries are the number one off-duty killer," Nobles said, stressing that all riders must complete a motorcycle safety course and be aware of the personal protective equipment requirements on and off base. "For those of us who ride, be considerate of drivers out there, don't be aggressive and be aware of your surroundings at all times."

Motorcycle safety remains a key focus considering the large amount of riders at Ellsworth; however, this is one of many aspects to address as more direction is received from higher Air Force leadership during the Critical Days of Summer.

He added that the ultimate goal is for people to drive down work-related mishaps and educate people on the hazards they may encounter during recreational activities.

"Summer is a great time for family and friends to have fun and enjoy themselves," O'Brien said. "Having a plan and understanding the risks of these activities will help keep everyone safe and out of harm's way."

For more information, call the 28th BW Safety Office at (605) 385-7233.