By BUCS(SCW/EXW) Jonathan E. Ring, Force Safety Officer, 1NCD, Naval Construction Forces Command and Tony Militello, P.E., Safety Program Manager, NAVFAC
Memorial Day is near which means that summer is practically upon us. For many of us, this means a time to renew countless outdoor activities swimming, grilling, mowing, and long-distance road trips. These activities are not new, but it may be months or even years since we last enjoyed them.
Over this hiatus some key safety tips can be forgotten, and there is definitely a need to refresh our focus on identifying and managing the risks associated with these hazards.
If you are going to drive on any long trip, begin your journey well-rested, drive during daylight hours, and schedule breaks every two hours. Pull over if you get tired it's better to get there late than not at all. And never, ever drink and drive!
If a pool or beach is on your summer agenda, ensure everyone knows how to swim, and only swim in locations where there are lifeguards. Keep a close eye on children and monitor conditions on the water. If you are on a boat, every single person should have a personal floatation device, and watercraft operators should complete a Coast Guard-approved safety class.
Last summer, sixteen Sailors died engaging in summer recreational off-duty activities. Regardless of the activity, active involvement in our shipmates safety such as pre-planning, sufficient rest, constant attentiveness and monitoring of changing conditions, will help make this summer a fun filled and memorable one for all of our Seabees and Civil Engineer Corps Officers.
Summer Safety Resources:
http://www.public.navy.mil/navsafecen/Pages/media/seasonal/Summer2012.aspx
Questions about safety
Contact Senior Chief Ring at
jonathan.e.ring@navy.mil or Tony Militello at
anthony.j.militello@navy.mil.