Critical Days of Summer: Safe, sound all year round

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jason Thigpen
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Safety Office
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  Memorial Day weekend is almost here, and it officially marks the beginning of the Critical Days of Summer as well as the start of the summer holiday season.

With warmer weather and sunnier days, we're more likely to get out and about. The three-day weekend provides a great opportunity to take the first road trip of the season, but expect an increase in traffic this year since the British spring holiday also begins that weekend.

So far this fiscal year, the Air Force has lost 26 Airmen to off-duty mishaps, 17 of those fatalities were privately-owned vehicle-related accidents.

Before you take a road trip, there are several steps you can take to make sure you arrive safe and sound.
  • Plan your route, even if you use a GPS, and include plenty of rest stops. Driving fatigued is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.
  • Inspect your vehicle, ensure you have the proper amount of fluids in your car, and check your brakes and tires. Ensure tires have good tread and the proper amount of air pressure.       Since we are in the U.K., make sure your windshield wipers are in good repair and functional.
  • Once you are on the road, drive the speed appropriate for the conditions. The national speed limit may be 60 mph on a single carriageway, but that does not mean it is always safe to operate at that speed. If it is raining or if the road needs repair, 60 mph could be too fast.
As you go sightseeing around Europe this summer, remember to manage your risks so that it can be an enjoyable time for all and you can live to sightsee another day.