Campaign encourages safe summer fun Published June 19, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Christopher Ingersoll 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs RAF MILDENHALL, England -- The Wing Safety Office has joined an Air Force-wide campaign to reduce the number of safety incidents during the 101 Critical Days of Summer. The theme of the campaign is "play to live, live to play" and applies to the stretch of time which started Memorial Day weekend and ends Labor Day weekend. Summer months have been characterized as the most dangerous time of year for servicemembers. "The focus is managing risk," said Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Blount from the 100th Air Refueling Wing Safety Office. "We want everyone to understand that being safe doesn't mean avoiding all risks, but knowing the risks and taking the appropriate steps to defend yourself and your wingmen on and off duty." The Travel Risk Planning System, or TRiPS, is one tool that servicemembers are being asked to use. "The Travel Risk Planning System is a trip-planning tool your subordinates should use when traveling on leave, pass or TDY," said Sergeant Blount. "The system provides you with an assessment of the relative risk your subordinates may experience during their travels." In addition to risk assessment while traveling, there are a few other areas the "play to live, live to play" campaign is designed to get across. "When participating in any sports or other recreational activities, members should use appropriate personal protective equipment, warm up prior to participating, drink plenty water and if outdoors, use sunscreen," Sergeant Blount said. "Finally, if you're going to drink, do it responsibly. Avoid alcohol-related incidents and never drink and drive." It is the 101 Critical Days of Summer and the safety office is serious about keeping servicemembers safe. Editor's note: For more information contact the 100th Safety Office at DSN 238-2142.