Commander issues safety message for holiday weekend

  • Published
  • By Col. Chris Funk
  • Commander, 482nd Fighter Wing
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  While the July 4 holiday weekend is just about here, it's important to keep in mind safety while you enjoy your holiday weekend.

We're smack in the middle of the 101 Critical Days of Summer. This year's theme, "Risk: Double checks, not second thoughts," reminds Airmen to be responsible wingmen and to take care of themselves, their families, and their teammates.

I hope you get out and enjoy the many community activities going on this weekend. Our 482nd Force Support Squadron is putting on quite a show at the base for the Independence Day celebration.

Law enforcement agencies like the Florida Wildlife Commission, park rangers, and the U.S. Coast Guard will be out in full force - on the road, the air, and the water. Safety begins with driving during this hazardous weekend. Be attentive, cautious, patient, and courteous.

We are fortunate to be in such a great location for boating activities, but I encourage everyone who ventures out on the water to be especially vigilant for the changing weather conditions. Also, be on the lookout for others on the water, and adhere to common sense and regulations.

We live in the two counties in the state with the highest rate of boating accidents in 2013 (Miami-Dade and Monroe). The top causes for boating accidents for both counties are improper lookout, excessive speed, inexperience, and operator inattention--that means the other guy isn't looking for you while he's going too fast. The same can be said of being on the road.

Whether you're making plans for long road trips or staying the local area, please ensure you're not operating vehicles while tired, intoxicated, or distracted.

Have a wonderful Independence Day weekend.