Summer fun with safety in mind Published June 9, 2015 By Senior Airman Eboni Reece 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- As the summer season draws near, it brings warmer weather. With its arrival comes the uncontrollable desire to soak up some Vitamin D, and relish in outdoor activities with family and friends. However, more time spent engaging in recreational activities often leads to careless mistakes. One injury for the force is one too many; each year Airmen are reminded continuously to pursue excellence in risk management. Historically during this time of the year, beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, there are increases in accidents that could be prevented by using proper planning, precaution and vigilance. These accidents are primarily brought on by summertime activities. According to Safety Office at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, there were 18 reported mishaps last year during this time period. Ultimately, the Air Force’s vision is to have zero preventable mishaps and an injury-free summer. Cannon’s approach to manifesting that vision includes promoting and using risk management and wingman culture in all aspects of Airman life. “Every Airman must mitigate risk in every aspect of their life,” stated Lt. Col. Robert Reid, 27th Special Operations Wing chief of wing safety. “Mitigating risk and conducting on-duty and off-duty tasks in a safe manner will prevent mishaps, and reduce injuries this summer.” The Air Force Ground Safety office introduced the Quest for Zero campaign last year which focuses on risk management and safety. The campaign is designed for every Airman, in all career fields, to raise awareness of the hazards they face every day - at work and at home. At first thought it may not seem like such a challenge, but the zero in this campaign represents what may be often perceived as the unattainable statistic in regard to preventable mishaps - no injuries or loss in resources whatsoever. Sure, it can be done. Anything is possible, right? Of course, but this would require every Air Commando to commit themselves to assessing all potential hazards and risks daily. At the workplace, we have instructions, guidance, equipment and support readily available at our fingertips for just about any task we wish to take on. No matter how many times a task is completed, or how routine the job may be, the proper safety measures are mandatory. When Airmen arrive home, away from career-related rules and regulations, it is not uncommon to succumb to the complacency from being in one’s comfort zone. Sure, leisure activities are designed for relaxation, but Airmen should exercise due diligence to ensure that complacency off-duty does not lead to costly accidents that could otherwise been prevented. Col. Ben Maitre, 27th Special Operations Wing commander, conveyed his expectations for all Cannon personnel—civilian and military, from airman basic to colonel. “Whatever your plans, I expect all individuals to personally assess risks, plan ahead and have alternate plans in case things go wrong,” he stated. “Remember, vigilance starts at the top and only works when all Air Commandos take it seriously.”