101 Critical Days of Summer begins May 23

  • Published
  • By Allen Montgomery
  • Chief, Security and Safety Branch
DENVER --  The "101 Critical Days of Summer 2008" begins this Friday. It runs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend and is the most challenging part of the year for mishap prevention. We all have big summer plans - camping, boating, swimming, fishing, barbecuing, rock climbing, working in the yard, and many other activities. We will be driving home to see family and friends. But remembering to play it safe may be the most important thing we do this summer. Summer fun wouldn't be that if it's marred by an avoidable mishap. 

So if you are planning an activity or a long trip, use some Operational Risk Management, or ORM, principles when participating in any activity. 

Listed below are some guidelines to consider as we kick off this program: 
-- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. 
-- Know what the temperature is going to be and don't overdo it in the heat. Know your limits! 
-- Get acclimated before attempting strenuous athletic regimens. 
-- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses. 
-- Wear appropriate gear or padding for sports activities. 
-- Let someone know where you'll be and how long you'll be away. Better yet, go with someone. 
-- Know the hazards of the activity you will be performing and try to minimize the risks. 
-- Watch the weather forecast before heading out. 
-- Get plenty of sleep before a long trip. 
-- Wear seat belts and make sure all passengers are wearing theirs. 
-- Perform a quick maintenance check of vehicle before going on a long trip. 
-- Don't speed. It's dangerous and a waste of gas. 
-- Have a plan. Know where you're going and how to get there to avoid last-second decisions on the road. 
-- Don't drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter medications). 
-- Be courteous. Avoid antagonistic situations. 
-- When driving, avoid distractions such as phones, food and grooming. 
-- If boating, wear a personal flotation device. 
-- Use the "buddy system." 
-- Look before you leap. Know how deep the water is and what is under the surface. 
-- Know the conditions. Riptides, debris and dangerous creatures may not be visible from the surface. 

Let's all work together to make the summer of 2008 free of fatalities. Now is when a concerted effort by commanders, supervisors, designated safety representatives and assigned personnel can prevent tragic events from occurring. Have a great summer!