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Sabers to participate in summer safety challenge

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dylan Nuckolls
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  The 2014 Critical Days of Summer Campaign runs May 23 through Sept. 2 with this year's theme, "Risk: Double checks, not second thoughts."

The Air Force's campaign aims to get the word out about safety during the summer, a period marked by an increase in reported incidents.

"Our goal is always zero mishaps," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. James Yerger, 52nd Fighter Wing Safety office ground safety manager. "We understand that is unrealistic, so we add in zero 'preventable' mishaps. If someone fails to yield and hits you, you have no control in that situation, but you do control the situation if you fail to yield while driving."

In order to raise awareness and reduce mishaps, the wing safety staff organized the fifth annual 52nd FW Critical Days of Summer Safety Challenge.

Squadrons will compete against each other to earn points through several different ways, giving safety briefings, passing out fliers or hosting related events, all to boost their position in the standings.

"Stay focused at work, don't cut corners to rush through your work to get out and enjoy the summer weather," Yerger said as advice to fellow sabers. "Plan out your entire trip, don't try to wing it, especially in foreign countries."

The winning squadron will take home the grand prize of a one-day pass, a free squadron picnic and the 52nd FW Critical Days of Summer Safety Challenge traveling trophy.

"Summer is an ideal time to get out and explore Germany and the surrounding region with family and friends," said U.S. Air Force Col. Lars Hubert, acting 52nd Fighter Wing commander. "While I want all Sabers to enjoy their summer, I strongly encourage you to stay mindful of safety in any activity you take on, and have a plan. Every single member of Saber Nation contributes to mission success, and we must ensure everyone does their part in keeping themselves, their families and their wingmen safe tomorrow, the next day and the next."

For more information contact the wing safety office at DSN 452-7233 or commercial 06565-7233.