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Be safe, no matter what your holiday plans are

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Heather Redman
  • 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AFB, Ariz. --  It's that time of the year again; a time of thankfulness and a time of giving. Many people find that the holidays are the perfect opportunity to pack up the family and the car for a trip to visit distant relatives. Some will stay and open their homes to members of their Air Force family. No matter what your plans are it's important to be safe while doing them.
 
Maj. Gen. Kurt F. Neubauer, Air Force chief of safety, issued a Holiday/Winter Safety Campaign "Letter to Airmen," on Nov. 13. As part of this year's Holiday/Winter Safety Campaign, "Safe-n-Sound," Neubauer asks all Airmen to remember "double checks - not second thoughts."

If you're traveling this holiday season make sure that your vehicle is properly outfitted for the climate you will be traveling through. The Arizona Department of Transportation warns drivers that due to the various climates and terrains throughout the state, drives may find themselves in sunny clear driving conditions in the low desert and icy conditions as you move up in elevation.

Those that are driving during the winter months should plan for the possibility of being stuck in the snow. Make sure that your tires have proper tread and are the right type for your expected driving conditions. Carry plenty of water, food, and blankets in case you're stuck for an extended period of time. A bag of kitty litter or sand can help create traction if you find yourself stuck in the snow.

In a letter to the Airmen of 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern) Gen. Tod D. Wolters, Commander 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern), also reminds everyone to "take a little extra time to ensure you arrive safely."

Last winter the Air Force lost four Airmen, and had 158 on-duty, and 231 off-duty accidents.

"Whether it's on or off-duty, think before you act. Plan ahead. Stay brilliant in the basics. Take care of each other. Through this winter and holiday season, return to duty Safe 'n Sound," Maj. Gen. Neubauer.

The Holiday/Winter Safety Campaign begins Nov. 22 and runs through Jan. 2, 2014.

For more information on winter driving tips please visit azdot.gov.

Editor's Note: Natalie Eslinger, Air Force Safety Center, contributed to this story.