Have fun, but come back safe

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Swenson
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Safety Office
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Since the Fourth of July, we have anxiously awaited the last long weekend of the summer. Labor Day weekend is a good time to look back on the summer, when the sting of winter was still fresh in our minds and recall the things you wanted to do while it was warm. However, Labor Day weekend is traditionally the most dangerous for Air Mobility Command.

Some of us will notice many activities remain undone and attempt to do it now. Before you attempt to clear your "to-do" list, I recommend the following;
  a. Make a plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Stick to your plan.
  b. Plan enough time to get there, enjoy yourself and, most importantly, get home safely.
  c. Make sure you are well rested for both the departure and return trips. Make frequent stops if traveling long distances.
  d. Never drive under the influence of alcohol.
  e. Always use your seatbelt, no matter how long or short the trip. Always wear your helmet, long pants, long-sleeved shirt, gloves, sturdy footwear and eye protection when operating a motorcycle.
  f. Inspect any equipment you plan to use, such as automobiles, motorcycle, all-terrain vehicles, boats or other water craft.

Even though Labor Day is symbolic of the end of summer, there will probably be a few more days to clear the list, before we start the "critical days" of North Dakota winter. So do what you can and reschedule what you can't. Statistics back up the fact that cramming too many activities into a weekend can lead to mishaps. Stay safe!